The Year 7 students of St Mary’s Catholic College, Gateshead, welcomed their families for a special grandparent’s day liturgy, followed by a morning tea where students displayed their artworks and school projects to their families.

“The week provided St Mary’s with the opportunity to highlight and celebrate the richness of learning and teaching at the college, the “good things” happening each day in Catholic schools which are making a positive difference in the lives of students, their families and staff,” said Principal, Larry Keating.

The skills and musical talents of students at St Joseph’s Primary School, Kilaben Bay, were put on show during a performance showcase of song and dance followed by a BBQ lunch with family and friends.

Meanwhile, at St Mary’s Primary School, Warners Bay, students enjoyed sharing a family picnic lunch together while students at Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Tarro, hosted a special Catholic Schools Week liturgy and morning tea.

“More than 100 family members joined us as we highlighted our Mercy tradition and welcomed representatives from Beresfield Parish. Students also enjoyed showcasing their learning and engaging their parents, grandparents and great-grandparents in a variety of IT activities,” said Principal, Cheryl Henderson.

Principal of St Mary's, Liz Starling also said, "Catholic Schools Week is a celebration of Catholic education. It is a celebration of our school community and for our school community. It’s also an opportunity to share with the wider community the many great things that take place in our Catholic schools everyday."

Over at Holy Spirit Infants School, Abermain, students celebrated their achievements as a school community with open classrooms, a liturgy and the sharing of a BBQ lunch with parents, friends and family members.

“Catholic Schools Week is a time to reflect on the importance of quality Catholic education available to all children. It is a time to celebrate individual achievements and share our talents. As a leader of a Catholic school, I am privileged to witness the excitement and fulfilment on the faces of our staff, our children and their families with whom they put their trust in us,” said Principal, Charlene Reid.

During the afternoon, students from St Joseph’s Primary School, Merewether, had the opportunity to gather as a grade to share their learning with the whole school community to highlight the collaboration, creativity and excellence of their work.

“St Joseph’s is proud of the wonderful teaching and learning that takes place in our classrooms every day, as well as the contribution our Catholic schools have made to our communities. We are well served by dedicated teachers and support staff who are determined to provide a high-quality education and accompany students on their faith and educational journeys,” said Principal, Peter Treloar.

Photography by Amanda Skehan, Amy Theodore, Emily Wilson and Brooke Robinson.