A School Community.
The Lent Half Term began, as always, with our school’s Feast Day on Friday 9th February. Originally held on the Feast Day of Reverend Mother, this is a tradition which reaches back many years into the history of St Augustine’s Priory, when the school was in France. At the beginning of the day the “Wishing” takes place, formerly when the Head Girl wished Reverend Mother a happy Feast Day, nowadays the House Captains reflect on the achievements of their Houses and the spirit which guides them. The Head Girl, this year Abigail Buchanan, also speaks. Abigail spoke about the generosity of spirit which is at the heart of everybody here and that makes it unique to any other school.
After the Wishing the Catherine Aylward Award is presented. This is the time when we remember past pupil Catherine Aylward, who died in the mid-1970s at a young age. Her parents bestowed this award in her memory to recognise girls who live their life to the full, who are the most that they can be. This year the Catherine Aylward Award was presented to Kyra Zorzy and Siobhan Kingsland – worthy recipients. This year the award was also presented to a member of staff. Mrs Eaton, Head of English, who has inspired us all with her courage and determination. The Catherine Aylward Award is a high honour and we congratulate all who hold it.
After this the games commence! Organised into their Houses the girls feast on the joy and jollity which the competition entails.
Following this, the whole school celebrates the day with our Feast Day Mass at Ealing Abbey. This year Fr David Reilly celebrated our Mass. From Prep I to Upper VI with staff and parents we joined together in thanks for our school. A fitting end to a busy half term and a wonderful beginning to a half term break!
