Young Enterprise Teams at Dickensian Evening in Ware

On a cold and rainy evening our Young Enterprise teams ‘Handmade Heaven’ and ‘Scentful Serenity’attended and worked hard at the Dickensian Evening in Ware. They successfully set up professional looking stalls which they then ran selling their products to the public. This experience provides our students with key life skills and builds their confidence as well as helps them to make profit which they donate a share to charity. We are very proud of all the hard work they put into preparing for the event, making their products and organising what they needed in advance for their stalls and attending what is a very busy event. Both teams were successful in making profit which we are sure they will move forward in the competition and continue to develop their businesses.

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‘Joy to the World’ – Carol Service

On a crisp December evening, the St Mary’s CE High School community gathered at the stunning St Mary the Virgin Church for our annual Carol Service, Joy to the World, A Celebration of Christmas. The medieval church, with its awe-inspiring architecture and warm atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for a festive celebration of music, scripture, and togetherness.

The evening featured a beautiful blend of traditional carols and captivating performances. Our talented Phoenix Singers Choir took centre stage alongside the enthusiastic young voices from Holy Trinity CE Primary School and Dewhurst St Mary CE Primary School. Together, their harmonies filled the church with a joyous and uplifting sound, leaving the congregation feeling very Christmassy.

Adding grandeur to the service, the Welwyn Garden City Brass Band provided a rich and resonant accompaniment to the carols, while Mr. Crosby on the church organ brought depth and majesty to the music.

Interwoven throughout the service were poignant Bible readings that reflected on the Christmas story, reminding us of themes of hope, peace, and joy, serving as a reminder of the sacredness of the occasion.

Presiding over the service was the Rev. Kate Douglas, whose warm words and guidance brought an extra sense of unity and community to the evening.

After the service, everyone gathered together to enjoy hot chocolate and festive treats. It was a wonderful opportunity to mingle, catch-up with friends and celebrate the sense of togetherness that makes St Mary’s so special.

This year’s Carol Service was truly a collaborative effort, drawing together voices and talents from across our schools and community. It was a privilege to share such a special evening with the families, staff, and friends of St Mary’s.

We extend our deepest thanks to all the performers, organisers, and attendees who made the evening such a resounding success. As we look ahead to the holidays, the memory of Joy to the World, A Celebration of Christmas will undoubtedly remain a cherished highlight of this festive season.

Merry Christmas from all of us at St Mary’s CE High School!

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Year 11 Discover the World of Apprenticeships with ASK Programme

This week, Year 11 students had the exciting opportunity to attend an insightful presentation delivered by The Apprenticeship Support & Knowledge (ASK) programme. Designed to inspire and inform, the session provided students with a comprehensive overview of the diverse apprenticeship pathways available to them, from entry-level roles to degree-level qualifications.

The presentation emphasised that apprenticeships are not a one-size-fits-all route but instead cater to a wide range of interests and career aspirations. For example, entry-level apprenticeships offer foundational skills in industries like retail and administration, while higher and degree apprenticeships allow students to earn a university-level qualification while working in fields such as engineering, digital technology, and law.

ASK also highlighted some exciting local apprenticeship opportunities, showcasing employers in our region eager to support the next generation of talent. Students were introduced to tools and resources for searching for apprenticeship vacancies, including the government’s dedicated apprenticeship website and local careers hubs. By exploring these resources, students can discover opportunities that align with their skills and passions.

At St Mary’s, we are committed to ensuring that all students are well-informed about the potential pathways they can take after school. Whether it’s pursuing an academic route, an apprenticeship, or entering the workforce, we believe every student deserves the knowledge and guidance to make confident, well-informed decisions about their future.

We encourage Year 11 students and their families to continue exploring apprenticeship options and reach out to the school’s careers leader for further support. The future is full of possibilities, and we’re here to help every student navigate their unique journey.

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Year 12 Students Benefit from Insightful Careers Talk by the Metropolitan Police

St Mary’s has always placed a strong emphasis on preparing students for their future through comprehensive careers education. As part of this commitment, our Year 12 students recently had the invaluable opportunity to attend a careers talk delivered by representatives from the Metropolitan Police. This session was not just an overview of police work; it provided an in-depth look into the varied and dynamic roles within the police force and highlighted the exciting Police Degree Apprenticeship programme.

The Met Police careers talk aimed to enlighten students on what it truly means to serve as a police officer. While many people may envision the role as limited to patrolling the streets or responding to incidents, the officers emphasised the vast array of specialisations within the force. These include roles in cybercrime units, counter-terrorism, community engagement, detective work, and more. Each of these roles requires unique skills and offers opportunities for officers to develop professionally while contributing meaningfully to public safety and community wellbeing.

A focal point of the discussion was the Police Degree Apprenticeship—a route that combines practical on-the-job training with academic study. This programme allows aspiring officers to earn a degree while working within the force, eliminating the need for traditional university study prior to entering the field. The apprenticeship typically spans three years, during which recruits alternate between frontline duties and structured learning. Apprentices are paid while training and receive comprehensive support to develop essential policing skills and theoretical knowledge, covering topics such as criminal law, public protection, and investigative techniques. Upon successful completion, participants graduate with both valuable work experience and an official degree, positioning them as qualified police constables ready to take on diverse challenges.

Highlighting initiatives such as the Police Degree Apprenticeship is critical for broadening our students’ perspectives on career pathways. Careers talks involving industry professionals help demystify job roles, break down stereotypes, and present practical pathways that students might not have considered. This approach not only inspires but equips students with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their future.

At St Mary’s, we firmly believe that careers education is a cornerstone of student development. Engaging with employers through talks, workshops, and interactive sessions is a vital aspect of our careers programme, designed to prepare students for both the professional world and higher education. The visit from the Metropolitan Police is just one example of how we strive to offer real-world insights and encourage students to explore diverse career options.

By showcasing opportunities such as the Police Degree Apprenticeship, we continue to open doors for our students, empowering them with the knowledge and confidence to pursue fulfilling and impactful career paths.

 

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Year 9 Students Excel in GCHQ National Language Competition

A group of talented Year 9 students recently showcased their linguistic and problem-solving skills by participating in the prestigious GCHQ National Language Competition. The event, designed to connect curriculum learning with real-world applications, challenged students to decode a variety of languages through engaging and complex tasks.

The teams demonstrated remarkable dedication and teamwork, with all participants performing exceptionally well. Special congratulations go to the winning team, Shiny Talented Dogfish, comprising Andrew Nkrumah, Matthew Nkrumah, and Kai Pierre, who emerged as the top performers among all the St Mary’s teams. Their success highlights the importance of perseverance, critical thinking, and collaborative effort.

This competition was not just about celebrating linguistic ability—it also emphasised the value of learning a second language in building diverse career opportunities. Language skills are critical in fields like national security, diplomacy, and global business, providing students with a glimpse into how classroom learning can pave the way for exciting futures.

Participating in events like this helps students link their studies to potential career paths, broadening their horizons and inspiring them to explore new possibilities. Well done to all the teams for their fantastic efforts!

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The Phoenix Singers Shine at the ‘Festival of Carols’

On Wednesday, 11th December, our school choir, the Phoenix Singers, proudly represented St Mary’s School at the annual Festival of Carols, hosted by Broxbourne Council. The event took place at the historic Jubilee Bandstand in Hoddesdon, where school choirs take it in turns to perform sharing the festive spirit through music.

Performing a selection of traditional Christmas carols, the Phoenix Singers entertained an enthusiastic crowd of Christmas shoppers, market traders, and proud families. The crisp winter air and joyful melodies created a truly magical atmosphere, bringing smiles to faces and setting the tone for the holiday season.

The choir’s harmonious voices, hard work, and festive cheer were warmly received by the audience, and the experience left us all feeling wonderfully Christmassy.

We are so proud of our talented Phoenix Singers and extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported us, including the families who came along to enjoy the performance. Events like these remind us of the joy and community spirit that the holiday season brings.

Merry Christmas from the Phoenix Singers and all of us at St Mary’s School!

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Year 13 Mock Interview Day: Building Confidence and Skills for the Future

On Friday 6th December, St Mary’s hosted its annual Year 13 Mock Interview Day, offering students a valuable opportunity to experience a professional interview setting for the first time. For many of the students, this was their first taste of what a real interview entails, and although there were plenty of nerves, the day proved to be an enriching and confidence-boosting experience for all involved.

Each student took part in a one-on-one interview conducted by members of the St Mary’s community and visiting employers, who graciously volunteered their time to support our students. These experienced professionals provided detailed feedback after the interviews, offering praise for strong performances and constructive advice for areas of improvement.

The feedback proved invaluable, with students gaining new insights into their strengths and how to effectively showcase their skills. Here’s what some of the students had to say about their experience:

  • “It’s not about getting everything right; it’s about showcasing the truthful skills you know you have.”
  • “I learnt what skills employers look for.”
  • “I have gained confidence in speaking to others about myself.”
  • “I learned the importance of preparing answers beforehand so I wouldn’t waste time thinking.”
  • “I learned how to articulate my thoughts and achievements in a clear manner.”
  • “I was able to identify my strengths and weaknesses.”

The event also highlighted the importance of careers education as an integral part of the curriculum at St Mary’s. Events like these not only help students prepare for their future but also encourage them to reflect on their skills, achievements, and goals. This preparation is invaluable as they take their next steps into higher education, apprenticeships, or the working world.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who took part in this event. Their generosity and expertise played a crucial role in making the day a success and ensuring that our students received the guidance they need to thrive in their future endeavours.

The Mock Interview Day is more than just a one-day event—it’s a stepping stone towards greater confidence, self-awareness, and readiness for the professional world. These opportunities enrich our students’ time at St Mary’s, helping them grow into confident, capable individuals ready to take on life’s challenges.

We look forward to continuing this tradition and fostering the development of our future leaders. Thank you to everyone who made this day such a success!

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“A Time to be Counted” a CSAW Production

“A Time to be Counted” CSAW Production

On the 4th and 5th of December, St Mary’s School staged a heartfelt and uplifting production of A Time to be Counted, a musical written by the school’s Director of Performing Arts, Mr. Crosby. This show was part of the Church School’s Art Workshop (CSAW) series, set up around 15 years ago with one mission, to work together as a community in God’s Love, showcasing the talent of the local church primary schools.

The production brought together not only the Dewhurst Foundation Trust schools of St Mary’s, Dewhurst St Mary Primary and Holy Trinity CE Primary, but also included Churchfield Academy and Goffs Oak Primary Schools —creating a true showcase of collaboration and local talent. Against the backdrop of a modern retelling of the Nativity, audiences were treated to a narrative rich with heart and hope, as Mary and Joseph navigated their journey to Bethlehem, faced with adversity but supported by unwavering faith.

The modern touches to the story were as delightful as they were imaginative. From Mary and Joseph’s unconventional ride to Bethlehem on a motorbike to the three wise men delivering their wisdom in the form of a lively rap, the production brimmed with originality and charm. These innovative choices brought a fresh energy to the timeless story, making it accessible and engaging for all ages.

The music, performed live by a professional band under the direction of Mr. Crosby, was a standout element of the show. The vibrant score elevated the narrative and drew the audience into the story’s emotional highs and lows. From joyous ensemble pieces to tender solos, the music was a testament to the cast’s dedication and the director’s musical vision.

The production also underscored the CSAW programme’s mission to foster unity and creativity among the local Church of England schools. The involvement of many local primary schools added a wonderful dynamic, with younger performers shining on stage alongside their older peers. It was a beautiful reflection of community spirit and the shared values that bind these schools together.

This year’s CSAW production was more than a musical; it was a celebration of faith, talent, and collaboration. A Time to be Counted resonated deeply with its audiences, reminding everyone of the enduring power of love, hope, and unity in the Christmas story.

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‘Joy to the World’ – A Celebration of Christmas

Experience the Magic of Christmas at St. Mary’s Annual Carol Service!

🎄 When: Tuesday, 17th December 🎶 Time: 7:00 PM 📍 Where: St. Mary the Virgin Church EN8 9NH

Join us for a heartwarming evening filled with readings, carols, songs, and prayer, all in the enchanting setting of a medieval church.

This year, we’re thrilled to welcome the Welwyn Garden City Brass Band as our special guests, adding an extra touch of festive charm to the celebration.

✨ Admission is free! Come along, soak up the Christmas spirit, and enjoy a mince pie (or two!). We’d love to share this memorable evening with you.

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Antarctica Flag House Competition Winners

Congratulations to the winners of the Antarctica Flag House Competition – Shaun and Nia, and to the very worthy runners up Alex, Alex, Daisy and Xhemil. Students had to design a flag suitable for the continent and the flags created by the 2 winning students are now on the way to Antarctica where they will be flown by a scientist working in the region.

Well done to all the students who entered the competition – they made judging the winners very tough.

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