In the Autumn term, we selected our new Mini Vinnies. These children were chosen from many wonderful applications, detailing their suitability for the role and their desire to work hard to benefit those in need. The children have already led a school mass in church, providing all of the readings, bidding prayers, reflections etc. They showed such reverence and respect, providing a fantastic example for their peers. The Mini Vinnies have also created wonderful poppies in English, French and Dutch, for our Remembrance celebrations this year. These were displayed at the Belgian cemetery in Birtley, in honour of the sacrifices made by the Belgian soldiers who are buried there.
To launch our Advent kindness calendar, the Mini Vinnies led a wonderful assembly at both the Infant and Junior school, encouraging the children to do acts of kindness throughout Advent. They also talked to both schools about the reverse Advent calendar, in which the chidlren are encouraged to bring in food to create hampers for those in need this Christmas. The Mini Vinnies will be in charge of collecting, sorting and delivering these items.
Moving forward, our Mini Vinnies will be involved in our Live Simply Award application. They already know about the wonderful work that went into the successful parish application and are excited to work towards getting the award for the school. We already have lots of wonderful things planned, such as an eco-project at the Belgian cemetery, in collaboration with the Eco-Group, Birtley Heritage Group, our Chair of Governors and a local councillor. The Live Simply Award bid will be launched in an assembly with Mark Maughan from CAFOD in early January 2023. We have worked with Mark a lot in the past and know that he will be a wonderful support to us in this journey.
