Dear Parents / Carers,

As we welcome the start of spring, we reflect on the many exciting developments and achievements that have taken place so far this term. It’s been a busy and rewarding time for our pupils, and I am proud of the dedication and enthusiasm they’ve shown in their learning and extracurricular activities. This month’s newsletter highlights some of the key events, upcoming activities, and important dates to keep in mind as we continue working together to support the growth and success of every child. Thank you for your continued partnership and involvement in making our school community so vibrant.

Cofion gorau,

Mrs Maria Harris

Dates for your Diary (new dates or information in blue)

• Friday 28th March: Friends of St Gabriel’s Cakes and Doughnuts sale from 3pm
• Monday 31st March: No uniform – instead of money we would be grateful for any donations for our annual tradition of a chocolate raffle. See below for more details.
• Thursday 3rd April: SCHOOL CLOSED TO PUPILS: Staff Training day
• Friday 4th April: Pupil Eisteddfod (pupils can wear traditional welsh clothes, welsh sports teams or welsh flag colours: red, green)
• Thursday 10th April: 3pm Lower School Disco (tickets for sale via ParentPay by end of Friday 21st March)
• Monday 14th – Friday 25th April: Easter break (school is closed)

Friends of St Gabriel’s Update

The Friends of St Gabriel’s are pleased to share that £70 was raised in the ‘Name the Teddy’ event that took place last term. Thank you for everyone who bought a name and supported our school in our fundraising.

Following this success, starting on the 31st March and finishing on the 10th April, there will be an opportunity after school to ”Guess the Number of Easter Eggs’. It will be £1 per guess.

The Friends of St Gabriel’s are a dedicated group of people that work very hard to fund-raise for our school – we are very grateful for there support. If you are interested in finding out about ways you could get involved, please do get in touch with the school office and we can pass your details on.

Parish School Links

Our thanks go to Father Anthony and Sister Collette who supported our Ash Wednesday Mass. It was so lovely to have members of the parish, wider school links and a number of our Governors join us. We are blessed to have such a supportive community surrounding us.

We were very proud of the children of St Gabriel’s for leading a special Mass and sharing their beautiful singing – a number of parishioners commented of how much they enjoyed attending.

Our Chocolate Raffle!

It’s the time of year for our annual chocolate raffle. We are having a non uniform day on Monday 31st March and instead of asking for financial donations, this day we ask for whatever chocolate donations you are able to make, little or large – it all helps and we are very grateful.

Raffle tickets will be available to buy on ParentPay and the draw will take place per class at the end of the term. The chocolate raffle is always an exciting event for the children and we thank you for how supportive you are.

Lent

As we continue the season of Lent, it is a time for reflection, renewal, and growth. For our children, Lent is an opportunity to practice kindness, and generosity. Whether through prayer, fasting, or giving to those in need, it helps us focus on the values of love and compassion. We invite all families to join us in this meaningful journey, no matter where they are on their faith journey.

Prayer for Lent:

Dear God,
As we enter this season of Lent, help us grow in kindness, love, and understanding. May we be mindful of others’ needs and share what we have with those less fortunate. Guide our hearts to reflect on Your love and forgiveness, and help us walk closer to You. Amen.

Parent Information from the Diocese recommended platform TenTen: March 2025