Since opening its doors in 1998, “little Joe’s” as it has been known by many of the parents, has, despite its small size, welcomed well over a thousand pupils. One former pupil and staff member, James Salt, recalls vividly the day that he and his Year Six classmates picked up their desks and slowly snaked their way from the main College building to their new home in the Prep School, where once there had been only a large pond.
The school’s motto ‘Growing in Faith and Knowledge’ has remained central to the ethos of the school and ensuring that children grow in the footsteps of Edmund. Service to the local community, and working towards a juster and fairer world, have been prominent aspects of school life that St Joseph’s children have been encouraged to get involved in as well as taking steps to look after the world around us through becoming a Woodland and Eco school. The result has been passionate children who eagerly take part in charitable endeavours – with the school office regularly resembling a small superstore at harvest or during our Reverse advent calendar in support of our local foodbank.
Whilst there have been many changes over the years, under the supervision of four Headteachers, the commitment of staff and individual approach to our pupils has always been the key that has set St Joseph’s apart from other schools. Many schools claim that they are a family, but St Joseph’s has lived it. The many comments of parents, pupils and staff, past and present, are a testament to the strength of the school as a family. Our 25th anniversary in Summer 2023 saw more people returning to St Joseph’s than we had ever imagined and was the perfect celebration of all the school has stood for and the achievements of all our past pupils.
Next to my office is a commemorative plaque unveiled by Br Gordon at our opening. It says, “One thing you can be sure of is that whilst you work for God, whether you succeed or not, he will amply reward you.” The memories of twenty-one years spent with my extended ‘family’ at St Joseph’s Preparatory school and the chance to work with the most amazing staff, parents, and most of all pupils, has been the greatest reward I could ever wish for. I hope that as our last few children start their new schools, and staff look to their next adventure, that they will all carry forth a memory of St Joseph’s, not just in their head but in their hearts.
Dan Hood, Headmaster
O God, we thank you for the life of Edmund Rice.
He opened his heart to Christ present in those oppressed by poverty and injustice.
May we follow his example of faith and generosity.
Grant us the courage and compassion of Edmund as we seek to live lives of love and service.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.