Triumph amidst trouble: RAAC-impacted school triumphs to secure prestigious award
When the going gets tough… the tough get going! Just look at St James Catholic Primary School (part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust) as proof.
Children and staff from this local Hebburn primary school didn’t let a RAAC problem – which forced them to split the school across three different sites – stand in the way of achieving something great.
In fact, they actually went on to win a special award: The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD)’s LiveSimply award! Amazing news and a great example of “in the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.”
A huge achievement celebrated by all
The award from the official aid agency of the Catholic church in England and Wales is in
response to Pope Francis’s invitation to ‘Laudato Si’ – to work with generosity and
tenderness in protecting God’s world.
Despite the disruption caused by RAAC, they’ve worked together to demonstrate that they
can “live simply, sustainable and in solidarity with the world’s poorest communities”.
Head Teacher Francesca Heslop said: “I am extremely proud of the faith inspired actions of
our children, staff, parents and community.
“Despite our most unprecedented circumstances this year, we have continued to live out our
mission statement ‘As Jesus Teaches Us’, by supporting those most in need in our world.
“This award celebrates what we have already done and inspires everyone to do more.
LiveSimply is very much a journey which St James hope to continue as we move back into
our school building and for many years to come.
“This is a huge achievement for St James and we hope to celebrate our success by
continuing our faith inspired actions. St James’ commitment to LiveSimply is a vital part of
Catholic life and the overall mission of the school and the Trust.
“Special thanks to our deputy Head Teacher Joanna Scott, the Faith in Action Group, Mini
Vinnies and for all those who have donated to the many fundraising events organised by St
James, most recently, CAFOD’s big Lent Walk where we raised £2,000.”
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “”Congratulations to St James for receiving such a fantastic award. Your dedication to overcoming challenges and pushing forward to foster a nurturing environment of faith and compassion is truly inspiring.”
The feedback St James received from CAFOD highlighted how they’ve produced “outstanding work which is a credit to the school, the community and wider Trust”.
Bishop Chadwick Education Trust is a Schools North East Partner Trust . If you’d like to find out more about our Partner School membership, click here.
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