HOLY Rood Catholic Junior School works to a Catholic Christian ethos with internationalism at its heart.

There are 18 different nationalities among the students and six different within the staff.

For many organisations this would create problems but Holy Rood has embraced it with positive results.

“It has given us loads of opportunities to teach children about the world and how to respect others,” said headteacher Tony McAteer.

“We hold international days each term to learn more about the different nationalities and cultures within the school. The children will dress up in the national colours, have a traditional meal and we have guest speakers.”

The school also has links with several schools from all over the world, including in France, Zimbabwe and Tanzania.

The school fosters close links with Holy Rood Infant School and St Joseph’s Catholic College, which offers a seamless route through the school system for pupils.

Building pupils’ literacy, mathematic and ICT skills are top priorities, for which the school has received commendation, but allowing children to gain other skills is just as important.

“There are a range of activities for the children to do after school, free of charge. We have a chess club, a knitting club and Indian dance club, among others,” said Mr McAteer.

Sport is also an important part of the school. This year the girls’ football team won the league and cup double for the fifth year running.

The children regularly get outdoors to learn about conservation and healthy eating. Twice a week the children work on a specially designed allotment. They are encouraged to grow produce which is then used in the canteen.

Mr McAteer said: “We want to prepare our children for life after school. Parents of different professions come and give the oldest year groups talks about their job.

“We’ve had a pilot, an MP and a dietician. It’s possible one of the children listening will think to themselves ‘that’s what I want to do’.”

The school heavily encourages its pupils to get involved in the community.

At the moment, funds are being raised to buy a minibus so the children can get out on a more regular basis.

Mr McAteer says one of the key strengths of the school is the board of governors.

He said: “We have a good experience in the board with people from lots of different professions. They offer a great deal of support, which is vital.”

Holy Rood Catholic Junior School

Address: Upham Road, Swindon, SN3 1DH Email: admin@holyrood.swindon.sch.uk

Telephone: 01793 527679

Website: holyrood.swindon.sch.uk

Headteacher: Tony McAteer

Chair of Governors: Paul Boyles

Number of Pupils: 272

Uniform: Navy Blue Sweatshirt

Motto: In Hoc Signo Vinces (In this sign you will conquer)

Mission statement: We are the children of Holy Rood, caring and sharing is what we do. Trying our best and working hard, praying and playing with God in our hearts.