Year 2 have been looking at journeys around the world. They used an atlas to find the seven Continents, the Equator, the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere. The children also compared the different climates around the world. The key facts children learnt were: 1.    Describe basic features of different climate zones from the hottest place on earth to the coldest. 2.   Explain the difference between climate and weather. 3.   Compare and explain the different climates linked to the equator. 4.   Name the main countries and oceans that the equator cuts through. 5.   Use cardinal/compass directions to describe movement around the world.

We used the Paschal Candle as the focal point for our class liturgy as we contemplated Jesus, ‘Saviour of the World’ and the celebration of new life at Easter.   Y6 selected the scripture passages to read and shared some of their own prayers.

The children at St Joseph’s took part in a sponsored Lent Walk in order to raise money for CAFOD. EYFS, Year 1 and Year 2 had a wonderful time walking around our school grounds.  We took time to reflect and remember our journey through Lent.

Last week, our boys football team represented our school by playing multiple matches against St Mary’s, St Teresa’s and St Albans. They played brilliantly and they demonstrated excellent sportsmanship at all times. We are also very proud to say that we are through to the final of the Bishops Cup! St Joseph's surged into the final stages of the Bishop's Cup with a thrilling exhibition of attacking football on Wednesday 2 April at Benfield School. Having won three games out of three to qualify for this stage the standard of the opposition was ramped up and there were some pre match nerves among the team. However, clad in their brand new purple strips and inspired by Mr. Stephenson and Mr. Brown's pre match tactics talk as well as staunch support from parents, the boys quickly settled and raced into a 2-0 half time lead against St Mary's, North Shields. Two further goals followed in the second half as the team combined composed and solid defending with exhilarating attacking play. The final whistle sounded with the score line at 4-0 to give the boys a huge confidence boost to start the tournament. There was no respite as the boys made their way to the next pitch to take on St Teresa's. The team started like the proverbial house on fire and peppered the St Teresa's goal with shots as the forwards enjoyed great service through excellent passing from the defence and midfield. Eventually the pressure told as St Joseph's ran out 3-0 winners to secure qualification. Our final match saw us take on St Alban's. This was a very even game as our boys started to run out of energy. Two sharp finishes were the difference between the sides as we struggled to make the most of the chances that came our way. The game ended 0-2.  However, qualification was secured and the team represented themselves, their families and their school superbly.

The children at St Joseph’s took time in prayer to reflect on the Stations of the Cross . The journey started with an opening prayer.   Opening Prayer As we gather together today to pray the stations of the Cross, give us the grace to open our hearts and minds with friends today. May Jesus’ face shine upon us as we walk with him and give us strength as we face the challenges of life. We dedicate our time in prayer today to those in pain around the World as we stand together on our mission to share God’s love and give them peace.   The children travelled around to each station. Each class took a turn to pray and reflect on each station. We used the paintings of the Stations of the Cross to inspire us. 1.    Jesus is condemned to death 2.    Jesus takes up his Cross 3.    Jesus falls the first time 4.    Jesus meets his  Mother 5.    Simon of Cyrene  helps Jesus carry the Cross 6.    Veronica  wipes the face of Jesus 7.    Jesus falls for the second time 8.    Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem 9.    Jesus falls for the third time 10.  Jesus is stripped of his garments (sometimes called the "Division of Robes") 11.  Jesus is nailed to the Cross 12.  Jesus dies on the Cross 13.  Jesus is  taken down from the Cross 14.  Jesus is laid in the tomb   May all children   In the world Share Love Share Friendship and live In the peace Of God’s love Now and forever

St Joseph’s welcomed Father Mariadass for a whole school Mass. The children from Year’s 3 and 4 lead the readings.

Year 1 celebrated Science Week by taking part in a variety of investigations.