On 17 July, Caritas St Joseph’s was pleased to host its annual Achievement Day, to celebrate the work of its students throughout the academic year.
Supported by staff and volunteers, students of the lifelong learning centre in Hendon came together to present their work to family and friends. Performances included music, dance and a narrative piece about Noah’s Ark, the model for which was also created by students of the centre’s arts and crafts classes.
Afterwards, each student was invited to receive a certificate and medal from Bishop Paul McAleenan, Chair of Caritas Westminster. For the first time, four students also received certificates for official Trinity Laban accreditation in musical development, which the centre was pleased to begin offering this academic year.
The Bishop reflected:
This was a wonderful event made special by the students and staff who worked so hard to bring everything together. What was very striking was just how many students wanted to speak to thank their friends, staff, and volunteers. There was a real sense of belonging and you could see that their appreciation was profound, genuine and sincere. It was a very moving occasion.
One student took to the microphone to say that she would miss the centre and her friends during the summer break, while a carer also expressed her gratitude for the centre’s support of students’ families and carers.
Following the presentation of awards, attendees enjoyed strawberries and cream and homemade cake on the centre’s beautiful grounds, looking back at what was an exciting and joyful academic year.
Gail Williams, Head of Caritas St Joseph’s, noted:
It has been such an eventful year for us at Caritas St Joseph’s; we opened a new Outreach hub, we went to Rome for the Jubilee, and have added new classes to our roster. Achievement Day reminds us that our students are at the heart of everything we do, and I am pleased that so many of their family, friends and supporters can join us in celebrating their gifts and talents.
Achievement Day marked the end of the academic year 2024/5 at Caritas St Joseph’s; the centre looks forward to reopening its doors in September.
Caritas St Joseph’s helps people with intellectual disabilities to share their gifts and participate in their communities and the life of the Church. The lifelong learning centre in Hendon offers a variety of courses to over 200 students, ranging from accredited creative arts programmes to practical skills for living independently. The team also run extensive outreach activities across the Diocese of Westminster.
Why not support Caritas St Joseph’s by donating or volunteering?
