st_joseph_s_2013 by Omadoig Associates

Contents The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

02-05 Welcome from the Head

46-47 Over the Sea to Skomer

06-09 The Music Man

48-49 Natural Beauty

10-11

As time goes By

50-55 Fy Milltr Sgwar

12-15

Home from Home

56-58 The Sister’s Cullen

16-17

Oh Holy Night

59-59 Communion Days

18-19

Scrooged

60-65 Stand by Me

20-21 To Bethlehem

66-67 Old School

22-27 Call the Midwife

68-69 Changing Times

28-29 Lark in the Park

70-71 Couples for Christ

30-31 Success at Last

72-74 The Swedish Chef

32-35 Father to Son

75-75 Clubbing

36-37 Ny Nan (the Cat)

76-77 Art in Action

38-39 Serving the Community

78-79 United Nations

40-41 View from the Past

80-81 Memories

42-43 A World of their own

82-95 Adverts

44-45 Vale

97-97 Sponsors

Publishers Omadoig Publishing in association with St Joseph’s omadoig@btinternet.com Editor Elizabeth Rowden Design & Art Direction Páraic Maddock Managing Editor Juliet Stack Advertising Manager Catherine Hinder

St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Pontardawe Road Clydach SWANSEA West Glamorgan SA6 5NX 01792 842494 st.josephs.rcprimary.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk website???????????????

Cover Design : Pupils of St. Joseph’s & Páraic Maddock

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

Welcome Together in Christ, Living, Learning and Growing

Welcome to the second issue of the St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal.

At the foundation of all Catholic schools is Christ. It is through Christ at the centre of ev-

St. Joseph’s is in the process of change. Since

erything by integrating Gospel values into every

January I have become the new Head teacher

aspect of learning, teaching and school life that

after the retirement of Mr. Way and during the

we and the children in our care begin our journey

Summer Term we will welcome our new Deputy

of faith and of life.

Head teacher Miss Liz Richards. I look forward to carrying on the traditions of

“Vision with action can change the world.” (Barker, 1991)

St. Joseph’s and what makes this school a won-

I believe that as a Catholic school we aim to

derful place to work at and be a child here. As

develop a community which believes in and af-

we continue to move into the twenty first cen-

firms the dignity and value of the individual and

tury the emphasis is on creating a school for the

encourages its members to develop fully, living,

twenty first century but retaining the heart of the

learning and growing together in a community.

school and including what we all believe in.

To nurture this growth; We should support the

Our mission statement is ‘Together in Christ,

development of the whole person. Develop self

Living, Learning and Growing’. I would like to

esteem through discovering and developing their

share with you my vision submitted at my inter-

gifts and talents. Create a happy, safe, secure and

view for the job of Head teacher.

positive stimulating learning environment where all can thrive. Uphold a truly Catholic vision of education which is universal and inclusive of all and welcomes those of other faiths. To promote respect for values and traditions of other religions. Foster spiritual growth through prayer, reflection and worshipping together as a community. Create a caring community in which each individual is given a significance and importance and one which promotes tolerance, trust, respect

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

and sensitivity to others. Respond to pupils,

thinking how wonderful - we have a creative cur-

families and staff with concern, compassion and

riculum with literacy and numeracy at it’s heart

care. Be a participating partner in the wider com-

and children who have experiences that as a par-

munity, welcoming parents, governors, friends to

ent myself I am thrilled with.

share in our mission and to build relationships of the highest quality with all. With the support

“Creativity is contagious, pass it on” – Albert Einstein

and co-operation of parents we stress the im-

At St. Joseph’s I want children to be excited

portance of a real partnership between school,

about their learning, feel involved in the process

home and parish community. To learn to adapt

and have a level of anticipation about what will

to the demands of the changing world where

happen next. A creative curriculum is not simply

communication and the use of ICT are a pre-

about making links between subjects, although

requisite and good global citizenship is essential.

this is an important part of it. It is about finding

To preserve and develop our own cultural iden-

ways to inspire the children by drawing in skills

tity within Wales, while at the same time promot-

from art, music, technology, dance and drama.

ing an awareness of and respect for all cultures

Creativity is about inspiring through the estab-

and creeds.

lishment of memorable learning experiences.

‘Together in Christ, we make a difference.’

Creativity can be a platform for establishment of

I am writing this at the end of an exhausting

personalised learning, enabling children to think

but truly uplifting St. David’s Day we have cele-

for themselves, branching out into areas of curi-

brated Mass as a community shared performanc-

osity and interest.

es individual and class with parents. In the after-

At its heart a Creative Curriculum recognises

noon we shared with each other in our school

the professionalism of teachers in being able to

Urdd our performances of the culmination of

plan and deliver the best curriculum for the spe-

Crwclwm Cymreig week. I watched with pride as

cific children in their care.

each class performed their version of the square

Enough of the vision and I hope I can contin-

mile – The canal by Year 6 - working with mem-

ue to bring it to fruition, I can honestly say I will

bers of the community to develop a concentrat-

try my hardest. As a leader this is what I believe:

ing on personification , an interview with Father

“Leaders are visionaries with a poorly developed

Teyrnon by Year 2 involving i-pads and excellent

sense of fear and no concept of the odds against

oracy, Year 5 creating a drama about Ynyspelll-

them. They make the impossible happen.”

wch House mixing the modern of Gang-ham

Together we can make St. Joseph’s a school for

style and the owners the original house.. (you had

the future enjoy the second volume of the Par-

to be there!) a ghost story in Welsh by Year 1

ish school journal and be assured we are here to

to name a few. After just completing an inspec-

make the vision a reality l

tion of a school in Tenby I was sitting watching

Juiliet Stack

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

the Music man ta k e n f r o m a s p e e c h b i d d i n g A f o n d fa r e w e l l to m r way o n h i s r e t i r e m e n t day

Mr. Way has been our head teacher for 17

This is a personal note from all your staff

years and it is with great sadness that we will

The teaching Assistants and support staff would

say good-bye to him at Christmas. Successful

like to say thankyou for your consistent kind-

headteachers like Mr. Way have a strong sense

ness and support to everyone. For always being

of purpose. They are driven by a ‘moral impera-

so approachable. Your health is your wealth and

tive’ To many, being a headteacher is a voca-

everyone would like you to enjoy many happy

tion. They see the power that education has to

healthy years together. Take it easy with the

improve the lives of children and young people,

paintbrush and ride off into the sunset together

and they believe fervently that everyone can be

and enjoy your new chapter of your lives.

helped to succeed. They set a clear direction and tone, living out this commitment in their

Mrs. Ryan (Delia)

everyday work. Staff recognise this and they ap-

Thankyou for always treating everybody the

preciate it. Before long, most come to share the

same and with fairness for always being ap-

headteacher’s sense of direction and purpose.

proachable, kind and compassionate. Your door

Above all, successful headteachers concentrate

always open when we need a chat. For being a

on the things that matter most. In particular,

true gentleman with a sense of humour treating

they ensure that the school is a calm and posi-

all your staff in a fair manner. For being knowl-

tive place, where lessons are consistently well

edgeable on all educational matters taking us

taught and learning is the top priority. Success-

through three very successful inspections and

ful headteachers are able to focus on the things

for the majority of us who have only worked

that are important and they are not easily dis-

with Ursuline sisters you have proved yourself

tracted. It may sound easy, but in a busy school

to be a very good successor.

environment, wrought with competing pressures, it is anything but and requires great dedi-

Mrs. Rowden (Liz)

cation. Thank you for being such a wonderful

Says it has been a pleasure. Mr. Way and Mrs.

dedicated head teacher at St. Joseph’s.

Rowden were the new members of staff 17

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

father died. St. Joseph’s is a wonderful, happy school where all the children are treated equally and all encouraged to do their best and we should all thank you for this. Mrs. James (Clare) says you are the only Head she has known at St. Joseph’s and you are always consistently fair. You gave her a career start and this has led her to where she is today. You have a great sense of ‘Irish humour’ lots of chats about horses and the Galway races and she will miss that. Mr. Reed (Jonathon) Will always be grateful for you showing faith in him and giving the opportunity to teach in such a wonderful school. Mr. Reed will miss you not years ago and she remembers how you came

just as work colleague but as a friend and wishes

into Nursery many times to support them in

you a long, happy and healthy retirement.

their learning. Going along with everything you dressed as a bear ate porridge made by gold-

Mrs. Jones (Anne)

ilocks. You were the big bad wolf and tried to

Will always remember you with heartfelt grati-

blow all the houses down! You have always sung

tude for your understanding compassion and to-

and played and looked so pleased to be taking

tal support during a devastating time of her life.

part even when nursery and reception have deaf-

When you first came to St. Joseph’s you joined a

ened you with their singing.

united loving staff who were soon to face many

A big thank you for your time, kindness and pa-

tragedies together. She cannot thank you enough

tience Mr. Way.

for the charity and kindness you have shown all members of staff. You cared for each one of us

Mrs. Mort (Mary)

at these sad times and that is what epitomises

Would like to thank you Mike for giving her so

Catholic schools and what they should stand for.

many happy years at St. Joseph’s.

You have shown that charity begins at home and

You have always been so kind and fair and she

just as our school is a family it is also a home.

greatly appreciated your understanding when her

You have been a paternal figure looking after us

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

• Mr Way with the children of St. Josephs. • Below: rumour has it he was part of an early Smiths line up. all and for this she thanks you.

rienced sadness and challenge

I would like to say I will really

in my personal life and you

miss you Mike. I have thor-

have always been there quietly

oughly enjoyed working with

supportive but never intrusive.

you - thank you for saying yes

Thank you for that.

to every idea I come up with

We have had an excellent work-

- thank you for being so sup-

ing relationship and I thank you

portive. Your commitment to

for the opportunity of working

the arts in our school has been

alongside you and your trust. I

an inspiration and is something I want to con-

will miss you not being there in January I will

tinue. The children of St. Joseph’s are so lucky

miss your terrible taste in music apart from the

to have a school where actors perform, artists

Smiths. Thank you for getting me into folk mu-

in residence work alongside them you never say

sic and making me feel old.

no. At a time when the curriculum could be so

I and the rest of the staff wish you health hap-

narrow you have always championed the arts

piness and the love of St. Joseph’s and the many

and know the real value they bring to primary

happy memories we have will go with you l

education. Like a lot of our staff I have expe-

Juiliet Stack

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

as time goes by r e m e m b e r i n g t h o s e w h o h av e g o n e b e f o r e u s & c e l b r at i n g o u r p r e s e n t st r e n g t h s

How quickly a year has passed since the launch

in Christ as a vibrant, ethnically diverse and

of the first edition of ‘Our Journal,’ which has

strong community. Things have changed much,

provided for us all a lasting legacy through the

but Christ and the truth of the Gospel remain

written word, art and photographs the stories

the constant and the centre of who we are and

and reflections of our past and present as a

all that we do.

Catholic Community here in the Swansea Val-

In 2015, St Benedict’s Church will celebrate

ley, with its two beautiful parishes of the Sacred

its centenary year, and we should as a commu-

Heart and St Benedict’s and our excellent parish

nity begin to prepare for a series of celebrations

school of St Joseph.

to mark the struggles of “ those who have gone

Our presence as a Catholic community here

before us marked with the sign of Faith,” who

in the Valley is truly founded on the two par-

worked so hard to build the beautiful Church,

ishes and our school, and we could do well to

which was declared ‘the Cathedral of the Val-

remind ourselves of the mission statement of

ley’ by the late Matthew Mulcahy, and which has

St Joseph’s School: “Together in Christ: living,

been the focal point for St Joseph’s School and

learning and growing” which speaks of the re-

the Mother Church of the Sacred Heart.

ality of our lives here. For we are entrusted with

However we should remember the words of

continuing the noble work of our forefathers

St Paul, that we are the real “living stones” of

who together with the Benedictine Priests and

the Catholic community in the Swansea Valley,

the Ursuline Sisters who first developed a strong

and that our celebrations should focus on our

Catholic presence here in the Valley. In an ev-

present strengths as much as our glorious past

er-changing society and within a Church com-

by reflecting the ethnic diversity and richness

munity that has evolved, changed and adapted

of our community in the here and now.

since those early days in the early 1900’s, we

May God Bless You All l

still continue to live, learn and grow together

Father teyrnon

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

St Benedict’s Catholic Church I love to go to God’s house. I know I have to be good, I say my prayers and sing the songs, and behave just as I should. I like to light a candle and, tell God what’s on my mind, I ask him sometimes to think of me, and help me to be kind. I look up at the pretty windows, and the pictures on the wall, The crosses and the statues, which seem to me, quite tall. Some things we do are Holy, some things we do are fun, but everyone feels special, and we all feel part of one. St Benedict’s is OUR church, Father Teyrnon makes us smile, We know that we are lucky, to share both of them for a while. Cameron Llewellyn – Year 2

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

A home from home o n e fa m i ly ’s r e l at i o n s h i p w i t h t h e sc h o o l o v e r m a n y g e n e r at i o n s

How did this happen so quickly? Our little boy

days as his shifts at the Mond and his wife and

has been at ‘big’ school for a term and a half

young family would allow, in order to help the

when it feels like only yesterday that he was

Sisters with the older boys left in their charge,

totally dependent on us. In fact, truth be told,

either as boarders, less fortunately as orphans or

it doesn’t seem so long ago that it was I being

as day pupils by taking them for their games les-

entrusted to the care of the St. Joseph’s staff

sons. His daughter, my mother, Elizabeth Mul-

(who, along with my mostly watchful older

lan (now Delaney), upon qualifying as a teacher,

brothers) were now responsible for me between

returned from the bright lights of London to

the hours of 8:50 and 3:20.

start a Nursery at the school and, after teach-

Indeed, if you count my grandfather, Brian

ing at St. Joseph’s for nearly 30 years, ended her

Mullan, who, along with his 3 younger siblings,

career in yet another new Nursery classroom

had weekly religious instruction at the first Con-

albeit one very different from that of the late

vent in Clydach, which was then situated on the

60s. Despite being an ‘outsider’, and to make

now non-existent Canister Road, Isaac is the 4th

matters worse from London, my father too was

generation of our family to be educated in the

welcomed by the Ursulines and, although it may

establishment which sprang out of the endeav-

have been due to his Irish name and Dubliner

ours of the Ursuline nuns to provide a Catholic

parents, he was soon being graciously allowed

education for the children of the parishes of St.

to mow the (vast) convent grounds with their

Bendict’s Clydach and, later on, Sacred Heart,

ancient lawnmower. Dad went onto become

Ystradgynlais. The school became an extension

even more involved in the life of the school and

of the Convent and in turn an extension of the

was chair of the governors for many years but I

family of its pupils and the links between the

think it can safely be said that no decision ever

school and the Mullan then Delaney families,

pleased him more than the one that saw Sr Fin-

as with many other homes, have always been

tan, after much persuasion by Sr Francis a lover

strong and borne out of love as well as duty.

of all things mechanical, allow the purchase of

That very grandfather who was sent to the nuns as a youngster went on to give up as many 14

a sit on mower. The school always had an active PTA and many

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

â&#x20AC;˘ My GrandfatherBrian Mullan in uniform with his Mother and siblings after their fathers death, early 1930s The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

• My brother Liam’s class (Y6) 1981-2 with Mrs Tess Phillips and Sr Angela

• A young Brian Mullan with my great grandparents. 1916

• My class 1982-3 in Reception with my mum Elizabeth Delaney

past pupils will have happy childhood memo-

sure that we performed on payday!

ries centred on activities and events organised

This sense of the school as a close knit fam-

by this group. Discos, evening barbecues in the

ily is what made our decision to send our child

fields in addition to the school fete on a weekend

to the Reception class so easy and, the fact that

(how exciting for us children) were thoroughly

many of the faces at the school gate are the

enjoyed by all involved. However it can’t only

same ones that used to run around the play-

be me who feels that the parents had the best

ground with my brothers and me many moons

deal with seemingly endless ‘Cheese and Wine’

ago, reassures us further. While they may not

evenings, quizzes and dances that often went on

thank me for drawing attention to their longev-

very late into the night! Fundraising had come

ity, the peace of mind that comes with seeing

a long way since the days when the nuns would

Mrs Ryan, Mrs Jones and Mrs Houston still

have to rely on the generosity of the people of

working at St Joseph’s is priceless. Knowing

Clydach to help them keep the school financially

that your child will be looked after and guided

stable. The Mond workers always gave gener-

through their formative years with the same care

ously to school carol singers every Christmas

that you once were is relief indeed as is seeing

and the nuns were always canny enough to make

staff like Mrs James, herself a former pupil who

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

• My class Mrs Jones (Y6) in 1989, James daley is middle row, far right. would also have been witness to the values so

of beyond’ for an afternoon of eating, drink-

important to those who began this school.

ing, ‘gambling’ and of course, that stalwart of

The past few years have seen Fr Teyrnon take

church dos, raffles .

our parish of Sacred Heart into his care and

In all, I would imagine many people are im-

once more the links between St Joseph’s and

mensely glad that the dedication, passion and be-

Ystradgynlais are strong. As we used to, Isaac

lief that led to the establishment of this school

can see many of his school friends in church

still exist today and, although there may be nuns

on the weekend and again there is a minibus

no longer at the reins, the spirit of those Sisters

travelling down the valley enabling Catho-

who once were remains ever present and will

lic families to have their children educated at

continue to make St Joseph’s Clydach unique in

a faith school. Thanks to Fr Teyrnon, social

this age of data, results and league tables. For

events now encompass both parishes and the

although these things have their place, when

Sacred Heart Church annual garden party has

you have to release your young into the wild at

been made even more successful through the

3 or 4, all you really want is for them to be nur-

swelling of its numbers with the parishioners

tured and loved in a home from home l

of St Benedict’s who have ventured to the ‘back

GEMMA delaney

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

Oh holy night P l e n t y o f sta r s b r i g h t ly s h i n i n g at t h e st. J o s e p h’s n at i v i t y p l ay

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

To bethlehem y e a r 1 & 2 d e l i v e r ‘a w o n d r o u s g i f t ’ to u s a l l l a st c h r i st m a s

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

call the midwife d e l i v e r i n g t h e m o st i m p o rta n t g i f t to o u r co m m u n i t y – t h e f u t u r e

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

One of my favourite walks is passing our very

was not my midwife for my daughters I know

own Nurse Lilian’s statue in Coed Gwilym Park

she was held in very high regard and esteem by

Clydach. I feel it is a fitting tribute to a very spe-

ladies in the area and I often heard of her in

cial lady, who has helped so many other ladies

the locality. It is not only my Mum who Nurse

in her time and it always makes me smile when

Lilian has helped the words of Hayley Rowden

I stroll that way with my dog. In my opinion,

Cooper also tell of Nurse Smith’s kindness and

Nurse Lilian is an amazing lady who I have had

dedication towards others.

the honour of meeting many times throughout my life. I met her first just after my mum had giv-

“My memories of Sister Smith are very grate-

en birth to myself and my twin sister and thanks

ful ones. Sister Smith was my midwife when I

to Nurse Lilian she in turn saved my mum’s life.

was carrying my daughter who is now twenty

My own personal family history would have been

one. The pregnancy progressed well until seven

so different if it had not been for her swift , quick

months along when my blood pressure shot up

thinking and reactions. My Mum’s words explain

to worrying heights. I was being checked daily

the story more thoroughly.

by various midwives being told that each time if

“It was 1968 and my beautiful twin girls were

it did not stabilise I would be admitted to hospi-

three weeks old. My husband and I decided to

tal. This in turn was making me more worried,

take them to the park for a walk as I was get-

making everything worse. I kept explaining to

ting ready unfortunately I started to haemor-

the midwives that, my Dad had just been di-

rhage very badly and we had to call the Doctor. The Doctor arrived without any injections to ease the bleeding. We were so lucky that Nurse Smith lived opposite us and my husband called her in. Nurse Smith knew exactly what to do and gave me the injection from her bag which ultimately safe my life. I was rushed into hospital and operated on straight away. I had eight pints of blood. If it wasn’t for Nurse I wouldn’t be here . I will always be very grateful to her.” I heard of Nurse Lilian again when I had my own daughters Alice and Grace, although she

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

agnosed with cancer and I wanted to spend as

questions appear later in this story. That day she

much time with him and my mum as I could.

really brought her statue to life. I believe greatly

While the midwives were sympathetic they were

in children learning about social history and

adamant that I should be admitted.

again Nurse Lilian was a superb choice.

Sister Smith came to check me over and chat-

What strikes me always about Nurse Lilian is

ted to me about my Dad and his illness. I re-

her attitude of being so self effacing and hum-

ally think she understood how stressed I was

ble. She obviously adored her work treating it as

feeling about the threat of being hospitalised.

a vocation to help so many after such a humble

Sister Smith spoke to my dad and he assured

start herself being evacuated at the age of eight

her that I would rest and be good. She decid-

to Trebanos in Swansea. She returned later to

ed that she would give me a chance and told

train as a midwife in the locality , met her hus-

me I could have the week-end and she would

band and settled here.

come and check me on the Monday. Once the

Nurse Lilian has a wonderful energy and

threat of hospital had been taken away I relaxed

passion still for nursing , showing her obvious

and consequently my blood pressure did come

commitment to care for others and in turn all

down. I had a happy and healthy birth at thirty

the babies and mothers she delivered over one

nine weeks. My dad, had a wonderful twenty

thousand to date. An amazing achievement for

two months with my beautiful daughter before

a lady in her seventies now. She is our social

he sadly lost his battle to cancer. I thank Sister

heroine a character in our community whose

Smith to this day, for giving me that chance to

statue at the park is so richly deserved.

spend time with my dad.” Hayley Rowden Cooper I was fortunate to meet her again when my class studied” Florence Nightingale”, we were learning about nursing and Nurse Lilian agreed immediately to meet us to discuss her work. She proved an excellent source of information for my children who loved meeting her. On many occasions Nurse Lilian has talked to us about her life as an evacuee and as a Midwife. Last summer she met my class and some of their

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

Questions asked by Year 1 summer visit 2012

I delivered them in ladies homes and hospitals.

to meet Mrs. Lilian Smith

When did you retire? Thomas, Harry & Olivia

How long did you train for? Noel & Madison

When I was sixty five years old.

Four years.

How many years did you deliver babies?

How old were you when you started to train? Joshua

Olivia Minshall

I was eighteen years old.

I delivered babies for forty three years.

Where did you train ? Carys & Jessica.

Why is your statue here in our park? Lizzie, Josie &

Morriston hospital.

Efren

How many babies do you think you delivered?

I was asked if I would be willing to have my

Isabelle & Jack.

statue put up to recognise my work in Clydach

Over one thousand babies.

community.

Was it hard work? Millicent

When was your statue put up? Jodie

Yes it was hard work.

It was put up in 2011.

Did you like your work? Sascha & Sophia

Did you like your statue? Brandon

Yes very much indeed.

Yes it is an honour to have it put up in this park.

Why did you want to become a midwife? Saran & Elicia

I was delighted to be recognised for my work and

I always loved babies.

my services in the local community.

What hospitals did you work in? Harriet

A lovely question â&#x20AC;Ś Does the white van deliver babies?!

In both Morriston and Singleton hospitals.

We just smiled. l

Where did you deliver babies? Elna

Elizabeth Rowden

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

Boys to men G r o w i n g u p i n a c a r i n g e n v i r o n m e n t, n u rt u r i n g f r i e n d s h i p s a n d g i a n t s u n f lo w e r s

It has been some ten years since I have left St.

Each year my Dadci Penry and I would find a

Joseph’s Primary School where I really did have

suitably large pot, plant the seed and place it in

some wonderful school days. I moved from Tair-

the best space in the greenhouse. My advan-

gwaith Primary School to St. Joseph’s during my

tage over most of the competitors was that my

nursery year.

Dadci Penry had seventy five years of farming

Even at that tender age of four I felt im-

experience and with his guidance we were always

mediately at home in my new school and the

strong contenders in the competition. One year

friendships I formed then are still as strong to-

the sunflower was so large my father had to take

day. Although I lived in Ammanford and my

it to school in the trailer and despite this I still

friends were spread all over the area- Jonathon in

only had second prize!!!

Ystradgynlais, Sam in Ystalyfera and James and

The next annual event was the school fete and

Alex in Clydach itself, I have always had a strong

sports day. My parents are co-owners of Cresta

affinity with the Clydach area and particularly the

Ice Cream and each year they would supply ice

rugby community.

cream for the event to help raise funds. My Mum

Along with Jonathon and Alex we have played

would always be in charge serving out cornets

rugby with the Vardre through all the junior

faster than Speedy Gonzales. For my part I al-

teams up to the seniors where we turn out every

ways felt a ‘99’ cone before the egg and spoon

Saturday. It is no coincidence that our friend-

race always gave me an advantage over everyone

ship remains so strong because we were part of

I had the pleasure of going back to St.Joseph’s

a school environment that not only taught us

on work experience where I met some of my

education but also the importance of caring and

‘old ‘ teachers and it was still such a welcoming

kindness which in turn nurtured our friendship.

and friendly environment l

Don’t be fooled into thinking that it was all

Christopher Jenkens

sunshine and roses mind I can think of two annual examples where we were pretty competitive. The first event was the annual Sunflower day where the school raised money for Singleton Hospital’s Radiotherapy Treatment Fund. My sunflower was grown on Dadci Penry’s small holding, The Mill in Rhyd Y Fro, Pontardawe. The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

lark in the park T h e s u m m e r f Ê t e h e l d i n s e p t e m b e r d u e to t h e w e tt e st s u m M e r o n r e co r d

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

success at last A fa m o u s v i cto ry f o r st J o s e p h’s t h at w i l l l i v e lo n g i n t h e m e m o ry

On September 28th 2012 Year Six represented St.

Noah was just behind him with nine.

Joseph’s in the Rotary six a side cup at Pontardawe

We stormed through the group stages with a

leisure centre. There were schools from the Swan-

goal difference of plus eleven. At that time Ben,

sea valley including teams from Rhos, Alltwen,

Joseph and I were really bored because nobody

Glais and Pontardawe Welsh School. Our team

was fully putting it up to us because we were play-

members were Joseph Lamnea as goal keeper, I

ing ‘Swansea style’, pass and score. We reached

played in defence with Ben McDonald and Josh-

the quarter final against Pontardawe Welsh

ua Brudenell. Rosie, Lucie and Noah were our

School. The game was really tight until I played

midfield whilst William was our main scorer. We

a ball to Noah and he passed to William who

stayed in this formation for all our matches. We

sliced the ball into the top corner……GOAL!!

did not lose our game and we only drew once.

The kick off was underway and Ben tackled my

William was our top scorer with twelve goals, but

friend Rhydian. He moved the ball to get into the

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

• The victorious St Joseph’s team and coach celebrating with the Rotary six a side cup. space, I threaded the ball to Noah who beat two

they shot from a long distance which Joe almost

players to score the goal that sealed victory.

saved it but it went in. 1-1. Then we kicked off.

The semi-final was against Glais who hadn’t

the ball was moved on to me ball to me, I passed

lost! Glais had the first attack but we held firm

it to Rosie who passed it to William who scored

and played a clearance to William who narrowly

a beautiful goal. We had won the cup. I was so

missed the goal. We were in the dying moments

happy I ran to William, and hugged him. We re-

of the game when Rosie slid a lovely pass to

ceived our trophy I was overwhelmed because I

Noah he flicked the ball to William who wit

realised we’d actually won the cup.

great skill slotted the ball into the bottom corner.

When we got back to school everyone was cheering because we had the cup and we were par-

We were in the final! The final was against Rhos, we scored the first goal but from the kick off Noah missed a tackle

dading in the yard like we had won the FA cup l Ben Mc Carthy Year 6.

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

from father to son h o w F o l lo w i n g t h e S wa n s h a s lo n g b e e n a fa m i ly t r a d i t i o n

Thinking back to one particularly cold October

at Peterborough United), I began to realise just

evening in 1980, I now realise this was the night

how much I loved watching the Swans play -

that a very special relationship started; a love, a

wherever, whenever and against whomever that

passion - and something which I didn’t know

may be.

at the time - would lead to a lifelong bond between myself and Swansea City football club.

Even during my latter years in school – when playing rugby was my forte – I continued to

Why was this night so special? Well it was

love watching the Swans. We’d play rugby for

the first Swans game I ever saw. Sat in the lofty

the school on the Saturday morning and then all

heights of the old double decker stand at the

head off to watch the Swans in the afternoon.

Vetch Field with my Dad, I witnessed a 3-0

You couldn’t beat standing on the North Bank

drubbing of Oldham Athletic. From that night

with your mates, savouring the noisy, rousing

on, there was no turning back for this particular

atmosphere. During my time stood on the North Bank,

nine-year-old. Following the Swans had long been a family

Roger Freestone became a firm favourite of

tradition, so it was only natural that I should

mine (and many others) during his decade of

follow in the footsteps of my Dad and Grampa

playing in goal for the Swans.

in supporting the local team – which just as the

From leaving school to graduating from uni-

Welsh rugby team - gave the local people some-

versity and then getting a job, not even a 13-year

thing to be proud of and feel a part of.

stint in Aberystwyth could dampen my enthusi-

Friday night games at the Vetch Field were

asm for watching the boys in black and white.

always special and they bring back fond memo-

Football was part of my life and even my fi-

ries of us going as a family to watch the Swans

ancé (now wife) Karen enjoyed our little week-

and then on the way home calling into Griffith’s

end breaks away to exotic destinations such as

Chip Shop in Pontardawe for a post-match

Rochdale, Scarborough, Scunthorpe and Hull.

treat.

A bit of football mixed in with some retail ther-

After my Dad took me to my first Swans away game in October 1986 (a Division 4 league game 34

apy - it was a winning formula and one which still works to this day!

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The events of the 2002/2003 season will go down in Swans’ history thanks to the 4-2 win

Jackett and a League One championship under Roberto Martinez.

against Hull which ensured our Football League

In August 2010, my son Alex went to see his

survival. The passion and commitment showed

very first Swansea City game at the Liberty Sta-

by the fans during this time made me realise

dium against Barnet in the Carling Cup. And

how much the club meant to the area and, in

just as it had with me some 30 years earlier, an

particular, the people who supported them

emphatic 3-0 win ensured he was hooked and

through thick and thin.

wanted to see the Swans play again.

Roberto Martinez and Leon Britton stick in

And so onto the promised land - Premier

my mind as two players who helped the Swans

League football under Brendan Rodgers and an

survive that season, and both have gone on to

opportunity to witness in the flesh those teams

write themselves into Swansea footballing folk-

and players millions of us were used to seeing

lore for different reasons.

on Sky Sports and Match of the Day week in

The move to the Liberty Stadium in July 2005

week out.

heralded the start of a new era for the Swans

Little did I think back in 2003 that within eight

and with it a whole new generation of fans.

years little old Swansea City would be playing

Over the next five years, it also saw the arriv-

the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool, Ar-

al of a Football League Trophy under Kenny

senal and Chelsea every other week in the greatest league in the world, and yet here was I, with my son, going to watch them do just that – just as my Dad had done with me. In November 2012, Alex went to his first Swans away game at Southampton and, in doing so, the Thomas family tradition of following the Swans had gone full circle. How fitting then that as Swansea City celebrate their centenary season that they should reach their first ever major cup final and with it write another chapter in the club’s famous history - a chapter which will no doubt see many lifelong passions begin for the people of Swansea and south west Wales l Duncan Thomas

Swansea beat Bradford 5-0 to win the League Cup and qualify for Europe. Enjoy the shopping Karen. 36

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

my Nan ‘the cat’ T h i s i s m y N a n’s sto ry b y b e t h a n s h i r l e y

My Nan’s name is Kathleen Shirley, she has

a deadly illness at the time. Nan worked there

lived in Clydach for fifty three years and worked

for four years during which she met my Grand-

at St Joseph’s for twenty years. Her first job was

father Bernard.

as a playground supervisor and then she moved into the kitchen as a dinner lady.

They moved to Clydach in 1959. The village was much smaller then with more fields

My Nan was born in Moneenroe, County

and fewer houses, but there were a lot of small

Kilkenny, Ireland. Nan had eleven brothers and

shops because there were no supermarkets. The

sisters and they all lived in a three bedroom cot-

only shop open today that was open then is HR

tage. The seven boys slept in one bed and the

Jones the Ironmonger. Nan started working at

five girls in the other. They did not have much

St Joseph’s in 1974 when the school was run by

but they were happy. Nan left School at fourteen

Nuns from the convent. The school was smaller

and went to work on a farm. She had to get up

and there were only a couple of teachers who

at five o’clock in the morning to feed the cows

were not Nuns. Nan enjoyed working in the

and pigs and worked until late at night. One day

kitchens where she made goods friends like

she had enough, packed her things and walked

Doreen Boyle, and had lots of fun. Nan was

the 20 miles back home. When she was sixteen

very soft and didn’t make the children eat things

she moved to Dublin and there she worked at

like cabbage and peas. All the kids loved her for

St Vincent’s Hospital in the kitchens. Nan liked

not making them eat things they didn’t like.

Dublin because there were lots of dances to go

Nan was dinner lady to Mrs Stack, Mrs Rowden,

to and things to do. In fact too much…. she

Mrs Hinder and Mrs James and is fondly remem-

was always getting into trouble with the Nuns

bered by children who were at the school when

for staying out too late. Nan worked there for

she worked there. People still come up to her and

five years. Nan had a best friend named Nancy

thank her for not making them eat cabbage.

and when Nan was twenty one they moved to

Kathleen’s native county Kilkenny is famous for it’s hurl-

England to earn more money. They found jobs

ing team. They play with great skill and a tigerish deter-

before they went and started work at Hertford

mination in black and amber striped jerseys. They are

Hill, a Sanatorium for people with Tuberculosis

‘affectionately’ known as ‘the Cats’.

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

• Above: My Nan when she was a girl • The clash of the ash, ‘The Cats’ v Wexford early 1970’s • My Nan and my Grandfather Bernard. The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

Serving the community l e a r n i n g f r o m t h e co m pa ss i o n, h u m i l i t y a n d g e n e r o s i t y o f st v i n c e n t d e pau l

â&#x20AC;˘ Pupils perform carols at the S.V.P Christmas party held in honour of the senior members of our community. 40

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The work of the Saint Vincent De Paul Society

There is an urgent need is to bridge gaps

or SVP is well known in the Parish of St. Bene-

where support does not always reach sadly. Mr.

dict’s Clydach. There are so many people who

Peter Daley of the society told me, “ in total the

have benefitted from the kindness of a visit,

Food bank development has made a hundred

support, hamper or toy appeal gifts at Christ-

and fifty deliveries to date since the develop-

mas in our local area due to the societies help,

ment of the Food bank and on average drop

many of us Parishioners have greatly enjoyed

off between three to five deliveries per week to

their work at Easter during their Passion play

those in need. The SVP set up the Food Bank

production.

following a collaborative discussion with Citi-

It was with great interest then, when I read about their new Food Bank venture in December’s Christmas SVP newsletter and decided to

zen’s advice, Gofal and Social services they acknowledged a need in the locality to support”. Mr. Daley tells me that “ times are desperate that there are such sad cases in close proximity

find out more. I called to the Food bank which is stored in

to where we live. It is a humbling experience

an unit in the Church car park, to see what had

to serve the community of Swansea he tells

been developed after reading about the work of

me that there has always been a need, when he

the SVP. It was a treat to see the inside to an

thinks back to the days of the soup run which

ordinary looking unit building which had been

the SVP organised in the last decade”.

transformed to house the heartfelt donations

If you are moved by this story please think

of this Parish and St. Joseph’s Cathedral also. It

of those who would really benefit from a tin,

reminded me of a small corner shop, filled with

can or jar of something that you could donate

foodstuffs which would support so many in our

to the Food bank please place it in the box in

community who are struggling.

the porch at St.Benedict’s, all items will then be

The reason for the new venture was to help

delivered to the locality to those in need. As the

the rising numbers of “ vulnerable people who

societies motto is “Turning concern into ac-

are becoming desperate and having to make

tion” it is wonderful to be part of the commu-

difficult choices “(SVP newsletter December

nity that supports others.

2012) the economic climate hitting triple dip recession, unemployment statistics , benefit cuts and looming poll tax rises have made life far more of a struggle for many sectors of society. Some people in our locality are being forced to make stark choices of eating or heating, the society have learned from speaking to our community.

• Much needed donations to the food bank. The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

• View of the Mond works, but can you spot Ynys penllwh house in the distance?

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

A world of their own w o r k i n g i n pa rt n e r s h i p w i t h lo c a l i n d u st ry a n d o u r e n v i r o n m e n t

On Thursday 13th September, a small group of

causes, thank you so much. We have become

representatives from St. Joseph’s walked to “Cae

members of the Wildlife Trust and will be us-

Pant-Y -Dugoed.” The Eco site is Vale’s new

ing the new local area walk for future studies in

nature reserve area, located opposite the golf

all classes. look for magazines in class and check

course. We went for the opening ceremony to

out www. Wildlife trust.org .uk. We also donated

meet Iolo Williams a very famous nature pre-

£85.00 to “The size of wales” project that visited

senter who appears regularly on S4C and BBC

our school in the Summer Term to help with the

ONE’s Nature watch series. The children did us

rainforests.

proud as they always do at St. Joseph’s. We had

A big thank you to all children , teachers and

a wonderful afternoon. Many thanks to Mr. and

parents who made Earth Day so successful this

Mrs. Walters who came along with us that day.

year. I know we all had a wonderful time. Thank you for your time and kindness in helping us l

“We went on a bug hunt, we found two bugs each, it was fun. We made bird houses with the helpers

Eco Committee 2012-2013.

from the Wildlife Trust which we took home. We

Nursery : Cohan Glover, Minnie Sweetman

met Iolo Williams who signed a school message

Reception: Kaleum Lock, Olivia Mc Neilly

for us all at St. Joseph’s , he told us a great story

Year 1:Elsa Binoji , Kristian Wilkins

about wolves in Wales.! We went to a buffet at

Year 2: Isabelle Rabey , Thomas Price

Vale it was good fun. We had a gift bag from the

Year 3: Kara Rees, Anna May Pennock,

Wildlife Trust as well.”

Blesson Binoji.

Harry Tierney Howells Year 5 Class.

Year 4: Sam Mc Carthy , Bethan Shirley Year 5: Sean Beynon, Casey Glover,

World Earth Day News 2012.

Angel Remot, Loubi Binoji

World Earth Day raised over £185.00, for good

Year 6: Andrew Jenkins, Kamila Stankevic

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

• We’re going on a bug hunt. The boys and girls of St. Joseph’s with Iolo Williams and getting back to nature at the opening of Vale’s nature reserve. The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

how green is our Vale Va l e , P r o u d to S u p p o rt o u r Lo c a l Co m m u n i t i e s

I came to work at the refinery, seven years ago, to

In my short time with the Refinery many

realise a long held ambition to work in an envi-

things have changed. Visitors to the site always

ronmentally related field, to do something where

comment on its clean and tidy appearance. This

I could assist in protecting the environment

was achieved by a schemed called 5S, which in

around us. My job here at Vale gives me the op-

short means that there is a place for everything

portunity to do exactly that, and I felt delighted

and everything in its place. The advantages

and lucky to be appointed. I had never heard of

of this particular scheme are many fold. Less

Vale or as it is still called by many residents ‘The

waste, more efficient production and the whole

Mond’, so the whole industry was new to me. I

site is now cleaner and safer than ever.

was amazed from the very beginning at what was

We have also worked closely with organisa-

being achieved here. 50% of waste was already

tions such as Sustrans, to extend Route 43 of

being recycled, energy use was being scrutinised

the National Cycle Network and British Water-

and plans were in place to improve environmen-

ways to improve the areas of the canal towpath,

tal equipment. The interest and dedication of

which runs alongside our Refinery and beyond.

staff at the refinery, not only in relation to envi-

We have also been working closely with the

ronmental issues but to the refinery as a whole

Wildlife Trust to create a woodland walk, where

and to the community around it, was certainly

we deliver curriculum based activities to local

impressive.

schools. The woodland walk is also used by lo-

Waste is a large part of our team’s focus. Re-

cal nature groups such as Clydach’s Kites and

using it, recycling it and most importantly to us,

Dippers; it’s a peaceful area that is available on

finding ways to reduce it. In January this year we

request for community led activities. These are

were delighted to be able to report to the Envi-

just some of the many initiatives which Vale are

ronment Agency that we had reused, recovered

engaged in, and I have seen successfully imple-

or recycled 97% of all waste produced in 2012.

mented since joining the team. Other initiatives

Well on the way to our target of 100%. That fig-

are in the pipeline already with more Health

ure could not have been achieved without that

Markets and a Green Travel plans to mention

same interest and dedication by Vale employees.

just two.

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

We are also involved in many Community led activities, and donate over £15,000 a year to lo-

and there have been reported sightings of Otters too.

cal charities, community groups, projects and in-

So I’m delighted to think that I have played a

dividuals within the Swansea Valley. In addition

small part in those improvements and work for

we proudly donate the annual Christmas tree to

a company who take the health and wellbeing

Forge Fach Community Resource Centre.

of the community, its employees and environ-

As we are an industrial site, you may be sur-

ment seriously.

prised to know that we have large areas of grass,

Ludwig Mond and his chemist Carl Langer

trees and shrubs, which supports a wide variety

were innovators, pioneers and with a good

of local wildlife and also helps promotes a feel-

community ethic. Here at the Clydach Nickel

ing of wellbeing for the staff here. Woodpeck-

Refinery, and indeed in Vale worldwide, I think

ers fly around the edge of site, Peregrines roost

we strive daily to keep up that tradition l

on the stack, Swallows nest here, Redwings pass

Fiona Sharp, Environmental Co-ordinator at Vale

through in winter, flocks of Goldfinches visit regularly, Red Kites pass overhead and even Little Egrets are seen on the canal. Grass snakes bask on rocks near the river, Dippers fly over it

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

467

over the sea to skomer C w m C ly dac h ‘K i t e s a n d D i p p e r s’ f u n - f i l l e d w i l d l i f e t r i p to P e m b r o k e s h i r e

With a severe weather warning in place 10

lars, cameras and waterproofs!

adults and 10 children braved wild winds and

On landing on Skomer the group assembled

torrential rain to set-up camp at West Hook

for the Warden’s briefing and then set-off on a

Farm, Marloes, Pembokeshire in the hope that

circular walk of the island with the children hop-

the weather cleared over night and the boat to

ing to get close up views of the Puffins and even

Skomer could be caught in the morning.

maybe a chance of seeing a Puffling! They were

As dawn broke the rain had cleared but a

soon to be rewarded with fantastic views of the

strong North Westerly wind persisted so un-

Puffins – with some birds coming within hands

fortunately the boat to Skomer was cancelled,

reach as they returned to their burrows with food

but not to be deterred the group decided to

for their young.

make the most of the dry weather and the

Many other species of birds and other wildlife

beautiful countryside by walking along the

were seen on the island, many of which the chil-

Pembrokeshire coastal path to the golden

dren had not seen before and the Little Owl seen

sands of Marloes beach where the group ex-

in broad daylight caused much excitement.

plored the rock pools and a few intrepid souls

With the circuit of the island complete the

braved the sea for a swim. With the picnic eat-

tired explorers were glad to rest and enjoy

en and the beach explored the group returned

watching the seal that came in close to the

to the campsite for an evening of games in the

shore in the hope of receiving any remains of

field and a feast on the Barbeque, again with

the group’s picnic while they waited for the re-

the hope for finer weather in the morning and

turn boat trip back to the mainland.

a chance of getting across to Skomer Island. Sunday morning arrived with clearer skies and calmer winds and great excitement that

Everybody thoroughly enjoyed the weekend and the group is now looking forward to this year’s weekend away.

the boat would be sailing today, after an ear-

Kites and Dippers meet once a month on a

ly breakfast the group set sail with rucksacks

Saturday morning and is open to children aged

packed with all necessities for a wildlife expe-

8 to 18 years l

dition in the British climate – picnic, binocu-

Gareth Walsh

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

â&#x20AC;˘ New members are always welcome, if you are interested in joining visit our website http://www.kitesanddippers.org.uk or telephone Vicky Rees on 01792 846443.

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

• The natural beauty on our doorstep. 50

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

•

Worms head by CARL RYAN www.blackplanetphotography.com 07798-755364

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

Our square Mile p o e m s a n d p i ct u r e s b y t h e c h i l d r e n o f S t j o s e p h’s i n s p i r e d b y o u r lo c a l l a n d sc a p e

St Joseph’s

St Joseph’s is a part of life which,

When I get home from school each day

When I’m old I’ll surely dream

I’m asked what I have done.

By Caitlin Llewellyn –Year 4

I think, and say what I have learned Clydach

“a lot, but it’s been fun!”

Living in Clydach is the best, My teacher’s name is Mrs. James,

The town’s just like a treasure chest.

(she is strict but lovely too!)

Great fun places that unfold,

We learn, but don’t get bored at all

Wonderful landscapes, new and old.

And try hard not to ask for the loo! By Clydach, the sea is near, I’m never afraid of asking for help

For living here, lets give a cheer!

When I don’t know what to do,

Clydach, might not always have the sun,

There’s always someone to help me out

But it’s a place that’s full of fun.

So I don’t get in a stew! It’s not as fancy as Paris or Rome, There’s lots of choice of things to do

But in the end it’s the place we call home.

At the end of a busy day,

By Aoife-mae Maddock – Year 4

Like football, art and cooking club My School

Before we’re on our way

I love my school I think it’s cool, Because it is a Catholic school

Everyday I like to play, every break I like to make

We also learn to pray,

New friends, new games for goodness sake

We go to church and sing our hymns

Every playtime my mates and I

Learn Mass, and what to say

Enjoy ourselves yn gymraeg mwynhau I thank the school for so many good times

School teaches us what’s right and wrong,

and I say to my dad don’t park on yellow lines!

How to share and be a team

Morgan Courtney Ellis

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

the sisters Cullen A b i o g r a p h y o f M r s C at h e r i n e B o w e n a n d M r s M a ry W y n n e o f Yst r a d g y n l a i s

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

My name is Brendan O Leary and one of my

attempted to bring to light in our parish those

loves over many years has been family history

who, some in our time will remember with

research and although I am not native to the

fondness and for whose legacy we are all grate-

Swansea Valley- being originally from Tredegar

ful. Their memory is honoured for all time in

- my wife and I were married at Saint Benedicts

the stain glass windows in our Church above

in 1977. We have no children, so contact with

the Alter of the Lord.

Saint Joseph’s School has been minimal over

To show a continuous link with and their

the years although I have some treasured mem-

contribution to the history of the Sacred Heart

ories of The Ursuline Nuns. What follows is

Community it will be helpful to have some

an account of my research in piecing together a

background on the Bowen family. Briefly, prior

biography of the Cullen Sisters.

to their moving into Glen Villa in December 1897, Owen and Mary Bowen (nee Rees) lived

The erection of the Church of the Sacred

at Gorof Cottage, Gurnos, Ystradgynlais. Mary

Heart, Ystradgynlais, whose foundation stone

was born at Llandovery, 1840 while Owen a na-

was laid on May 2nd 1938 was ……’largely due

tive of Ystradgynlais and a carpenter by trade

to the generosity of Mrs Bowen and her late

was born in 1839. They married in Neath in

sister Mrs Wynne, the Walsh family and other

1858 where, in 1859 their only child Evan John

benefactors……..the sisters gave the site for the

was born. By 1861 the Bowen family who were

church and also helped to furnish it……. ‘ So it

Anglican, were living at Penderyn, Merthyr

says in the booklet Sacred Heart Ystradgynlais

Tydful where Mary it seems was very active in

– Souvenir of Golden Jubilee Opening – Janu-

charitable work – as evident by letters, recent-

ary 22nd 1989. But who were these sisters? just

ly discovered in our priests house by Brendan

two of the many Irish or Irish descent – our

Clancy while doing building work there, dated

forbearers, who helped to re-establish Catholic

1889/1891 respectively. Sometime in the 1880’s

Parishes in South Wales.

they moved to Gorof Cottage before finally re-

With this booklet, the invaluable help of our

siding at Glen Villa in 1897. Meanwhile, their

Diocesan Archivist Alan Randall, the Archi-

son Evan John was lodging with a family named

vist of the Bishopric of the Forces Mrs Freda

Hughes in 1881 in Rhayader, Mid-Wales. He is

Sheppard and the Findmypast website, I have

described as single and a ‘Certified Teacher’.

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

Sometime in the 1880’s he joined the British

– probably her husband’s regiment. By 1911,

Army serving in the same capacity overseas

Evan and Catherine Bowen had returned from

possibly returning to Aldershot Army Camp in

India to live with his father Owen at Glen Villa

the 1890’s. It’s not clear to me whether Evan

– his mother, Mary had died there in 1909 and

met his future wife Catherine Cullen there or in

later Owen, in 1928. Evan had by then retired

Rawalpindi, India where they married in 1901

with a pension and the rank of Warrant Officer

and where she appears to have been teaching

1st Class – the highest non-commissioned rank

at the time.

in the British Army. Both Catherine and Evan

However, in 1881 it’s clear that Catherine

were school teachers and indeed Evan was

and family were living in apparently humble

Headmaster for a time at the Primary School at

circumstances in the South Camp, Aldershot

the rear of our church

Army Camp, Hampshire. Her father John was

Quoting from the Souvenir booklet we are

described in the Census of 1881 as born in Ire-

told that…..’the Bowen family lived in Glen Villa

land in 1838, occupation ‘barrack Labourer’.

since December 1897 when Mr Evan John Bo-

Her mother Mary (nee Green) was also born in

wen leased the property from Fleming Gough

Ireland, in 1843. Catherine was born in Alder-

Esq. During May of 1917 a deed of conveyance

shot in 1877 and so were her two sisters Mary

was signed by Fleming R D A Gough and oth-

Jane (the future Mrs Wynne), born 1874 and

ers to Mr Evan John Bowen…….’ Evan John

Sarah Anne, born 1879. In 1896 John Cullen

died in 1927, aged 68 yrs. and it seems he and

died presumably in Aldershot Camp. At this

Catherine were childless. When her sister came

time his wife Mary and their daughter Sarah

to live with her is not known, but Mary Jane

probably had to vacate the Camp on his death,

Cullen Wynne died in 1938, aged 64 yrs. The

for they were living in a house in 1901 in or near

same year as the foundation stone of the Sacred

Aldershot, where Mary Cullen died in 1909.

Heart Church was laid.

Nothing more is known of Sarah Anne Cul-

Finally, from the Booklet…..’In December

len after 1901 but I believe her sister Mary

of 1939 a deed of conveyance concerning the

Jane was also like Catherine, living in India and

land on which the church was built was made by

married to a serviceman named Wynne – de-

Mrs C Bowen to …….Diocese of Menevia. In

tails of whom I have unfortunately as yet not

her will Mrs Bowen left her house to the Dio-

been able to uncover. In 1911 then, Mrs Mary

cese…….’ I’m told some in the parish will re-

Jane Wynne was given as married for 12yrs. and

member Catherine in her later years arranging the

living in quarters – according to the Overseas

flowers in the church. Catherine Cullen Bowen

Census – occupied by A and B Companies,

died on the 3rd of January 1955, aged 78 yrs l

2nd Batt East Yorkshire Regt. Faisalabad, India

Brendan O Leary

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

communion days f i r st h o ly co m m u n i o n h a s a lways b e e n a b i g day i n t h e pa r i s h

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

stand by me “ i n e v e r h a d f r i e n d s l at e r o n l i k e t h e o n e s w h e n i wa s yo u n g, d o e s a n yo n e?”

l Ciara Williams

to become a five star restaurant chef because I

Favourite memory; When Mrs. Ryan every Friday

love to cook and I have had that dream since I

read us “Beaver Towers”. I thought it was the

was three years old.

best book ever! I loved it because all the animals

l Benjamin Mc Donald

could talk and there was an evil witch, and to a

Favourite memory; My favourite memory is having

five year old, it was very magical. It made me

the part of Jesus in the Easter play, I had the

love writing and inspired me to write a fantasy

role of the main character and I also had a solo.

book.

I felt on top of the world!

Hopes for the future; I hope to be an author when

Hopes for the future; I hope that I will do well in

I am older to make people see what you see and

Comp so I can go to University.

letting them into your imagination is the best

l Sona Tomy

feeling in the world.

Favourite memory; All the lovely friends I have

l Kamila Stankevic

made.

Favourite memory; My favourite memory in St.

Hopes for the future; to work hard and be happy.

Joseph’s is the first time I ever went to Heath-

l Joseph Cura

erton in Year 4. I loved every bit of the experi-

Favourite memory; My favourite memory in this

ence but the only down side was the weather.

school is when Ben Mc , kamila and I were in

From go- karting to water fights every moment

Year 2 class. At play time when we were bored

was thrilling.

Ben and I asked Kamila if she wanted to start

Hopes for the future; My hope for the future is that

a game called Dr.Who. It was played by the

hopefully I will have great levels ,high marks in

demountables outside year 4 and 5. Everyone

my exams and a successful job.

came to us and started playing. The infant yard

Emma Thomas

was so empty that everyone was on the ramp.

Favourite memory; My favourite memory of St.

Hopes for the future; Once I finish Secondary

Joseph’s was when I first came into Nursery

school I want to be a Doctor but sometimes I

because I met lots of friends, that was my fa-

can be put off easily. If not I could be a scien-

vourite day ever!

tist if I get good grades I hope but I might be

Hopes for the future; My hopes for the future are

an optician.

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

l Shauna Taylor

most important thing is meeting all my friends

Favourite memory; My first day in year four where

and had a laugh over the years.

I met so many of my amazing friends that I

Hopes for the future; My hopes for the future are

love so much.

doing well all through comp because the better

Hopes for the future; To be a wedding planner and

you do the better the job you get, and doing

stay in touch with all my friends.

well through college.

l Lucie Daley

l Paaras Bhardvaj

Favourite memory; My favourite memory is when

I came first in Ashley Road and winning the cup

I joined this school and I was really scared but

in Pontardawe tournament and also when I met

after a while everyone got to know me and they

all my friends.

were so nice. I felt so homely. In my old school

Hopes for the future; I hope in Bishop Vaughan I

it didn’t feel like home it was such a difference.

do really good work and meet new friends.

Hopes for the future; In the future I really want to

l Joseph Lamnea

have a good job and make the most of my life.

Favourite memory; My favourite memory was

l Kirsten Cowell

when Noah, Ben Mc Carthy, Ben Mc Donald,

Favourite memory; My favourite memory is when I

Joshua, William, Rosie Lucie and I went to Pon-

came into reception and I made friends straight

tardawe and played in a football tournament

away and had lots of fun. My friend Mia and I

and we came first. We were all jumping about

have been friends ever since we met.

and enjoying ourselves.

Hopes for the future; My hope for the future is to

Hopes for the future; In the future I would like to

have a great education and meet new friends

be a marine biologist because I will spend lots

and get a great job.

of my life by the sea.

l Rhiannon Harvey

l William Jamie Rickard

Favourite memory; My favourite memory is my

Favourite memory; My favourite was the Pon-

first day because I met all my friends that I love

tardawe Tournament because we won and took

so much!

the trophy back.

Hopes for the future; I hope that I will do well in

Hopes for future; Is to do well in Comp and to

my exams and have a happy life and be able to

become a football player.

be a vet.

l Rosie Morrissey

l Leonie Mills

Favourite Memory; My favourite memory is when

Favourite memory; of St. Joseph’s ; Meeting all my

I joined this school because over the years we

friends because I know I wouldn’t be like I am

have done lots of fun things in our class. The

today without them.

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

Hopes for the future; In the future I hope to do well

Favourite memory; Coming into Nursery because it

in my exams and get a good job. I also hope I

was the first time coming into proper school, to

will stay in touch with everyone in year 6.

find new friends and get an education.

l Mia Calvert

Hopes for the future; My hope for the future is to

Favourite memory; My favourite memory is when

become a professional horse rider because I

I joined St. Joseph’s because I wouldn’t have the

love horses.

friends I have now or any of my memories I

l Noah Daley

have.

Favourite memory; Was when we won the cup with

Hopes for the future; My hopes for the future are I

Mr.Reed because we had so much fuss and we

want to do well in comp and hope for the best

came home with a big trophy which we won

life and a good job.

because we played as a team and did really well

l Joshua Brudenell

in the Pontardawe Tournament.

Favourite memory; My favourite memory is the

Hopes for the future; I hope that I become a pro-

Pontardawe Football Tournament final. It felt

fessional football player because I really like

like I was playing for Barcelona in the Cham-

football.

pion’s League Final. The score was 2-1 to St. Jo-

l Benjamin McCarthy

seph’s the celebrations were so loud I couldn’t

Favourite memory; My favourite memory is when

hear myself speak! It was the best day ever. This

Noah, William , Ben Mc D ,Rosie, Lucie, Joe L,

is my favourite memory because this was the

Josh B. and I won the Pontardawe Rotary Cup

first trophy I’d won for the school and it was a

in September. This is my favourite memory in

very special day.

the school because it is the first big trophy we

Hopes for the future; I hope I do well in Bishop

won for our school and we had a great time.

Vaughan and become part of a charity that

Hopes for the future; I hope to do well in my ex-

helps poor people in Britain.

ams and design cars for the likes of Lambo-

l Andrew Jenkins

rghini, Ferrari and other car makes.

Favourite memory; Is going up to year 6 because

l Madyson Delegado

I’ve been here for eight years and I am going up

Favourite memory; My favourite memory in St. Jo-

to the top class and the best teacher and think-

seph’s is my first row! In reception Ciara and

ing it won’t be long before I go.

I were sitting together and giggling. Mrs. Ryan

Hopes for the future; To be a councillor because it

told us we shouldn’t be talking because we were

is an important job to do and I want to have a

going up to year 1 soon. This is my favourite

good and successful life .

memory because it helps me to remember the

Abigail Phillips

importance value of friendship. The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

Hopes for the future; I hope to write many sto-

l Caitlin Mc Neilly

ries and give the money to charities for people

Favourite memory; My favourite memory is go-

and animals because I feel we need to help

ing to Ashley Road because it was fun running

them.

against other teams with my friends. Very fun!

l Chloe Mills

Hopes for the future; My hopes for the future are

Favourite memory; Doing the play “Five gold

to get a good job, good levels in comprehensive

rings” and being a jingle girl along with Leonie,

school and to have a happy family and friends.

Emma, Ciara, Lucie ,Madyson, Shauna and

l Joyal George

Caitlin because we had to remember all these

Favourite memory; Is when we go to Heatherton.

funny little jingles and dances and how Lucie

I like it because the trips are really fun and

wasn’t wearing gold and we had to share some

amazing!!!!!!

tinsel with her.

Hopes for the future; My hope is to pass and get

Hopes for the future; I would love to become a sci-

good grades in everything so that I can be a

entist or to carry on a family business “Robbins

doctor when I am older. I will try very hard to

removals” and not to forget how much fun I’ve

do this.

had here and not to forget all my friends.

l Joshua Yip

l Zoe Rees

Favourite memory; Is when I was in year 2 class, I

Favourite memory; My favourite memory was go-

had fun and it was a good class.

ing to Heatherton for the first time because

Hopes for the future; My hope is to study more and

it was really exciting and it was fun, especially

get better grades.

squirting all my friends on master blaster.

l Ben Parker

Hopes for the future; My hopes are that I will get

Favourite memory; I liked going outside doing the

into a good university and to become an as-

gardening and making the pop bottle green-

tronomer.

house.

l Chantale Davies

Hopes for the future; I would like to be a digger

Favourite memory; Is when I first joined this school

driver.

because everyone made me feel welcome and

l Celyn Manorek Price

were really nice to me the teachers are kind and

My favourite memory; My favourite memory is

it made a change from my old school and every-

meeting new friends.

thing was new and people around were willing

Hopes for the future; To do well in school, compre-

to show me the school.

hensive and be happy

Hopes for the future; My hope for the future is to be a poet and an artist (sketching and painting,

Compiled by the Year 6 Pupils.

crafts etc)

we wish them well!

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

Old School S n a p s h ots o f t h e pa st, a f e w n o w o l d e r b u t fa m i l i a r fac e s

• Teachers and Dates please

• Teachers and Dates please 68

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

• Teachers and Dates please

• Teachers and Dates please The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

changing Times C ly dac h h i sto r i c a l s o c i e t y c e l e b r at e s i t ’s 30 t h a n n i v e r s a ry t h i s y e a r

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

together in christ Co u p l e s f o r C h r i st act i v e i n a l l a r e a s o f Pa r i s h l i f e

Couples for Christ (CFC) began in Manila in1981.

participated in a number of dance presentations

It is now a global Catholic movement which has

with other children from the community.

expanded into a full family ministry, for all family

The following morning, many of the visitors

members and single people, through Singles for

attended Mass at St Benedict’s, where CFC-

Christ (SFC) Youth for Christ (YFC), and Kids

Wales provide the music every first Sunday of

for Christ (KFC). Its calling is to form ‘Fami-

the month. The church was full to overflowing

lies in the Holy Spirit, Renewing the Face of the

and local parishioners welcomed the visitors and

Earth’. CFC-UK is now its 17th year in the UK,

enjoyed the new worship songs, played by mem-

and CFC-Wales, based here in Clydach and Mor-

bers of Singles for Christ from London. Following on directly from the conference

riston, was formed in 2005. On May 5th 2012 an event unique in the his-

CFC-Wales held its first Youth Camp. This

tory of the Catholic Church in Wales, occurred

was held in Pembrokeshire in November 2012

when CFC-Wales hosted the 6th Annual Con-

and was attended by 25 young people from St

ference of Couples for Christ in the UK (CFC-

Benedict’s, Sacred Heart (Morriston) and oth-

UK), at St Joseph’s School, Port Talbot.

er Swansea parishes. Consequently Youth for

Over 600 participants, of all ages, from all over the UK, attended the conference, which

Christ (YFC-Wales) was formed and meets twice monthly at St Benedict’s.

was opened with a Mass celebrated by Bishop

Our next major event, in cooperation with the

Thomas Burns SM, assisted by four priests: Fr

Morriston Filipino Community and others, will

Teyrnon Williams of St Benedict’s, (chaplain to

be the 3rd Annual Santa Cruzan at St Benedict’s

CFC-Wales), Fr Ceirion Gilbert, Menevia’s Di-

on Sunday 26th May. We hope many of you will

ocesan Youth Coordinator, Canon Joseph Ce-

attend this year and in future years.

fai of the local parish (St Joseph’s, Port Talbot),

Though CFC-UK is strongly rooted in the Fili-

and Fr Gareth Leyshon from the Archdiocese

pino community it is not an exclusively Filipino

of Cardiff, Wales. The Bishop and priests then

movement - the UK national leaders, Chris and

had the opportunity to meet with the leaders of

Chipo Mautsi, are originally from Zimbabwe,

CFC-UK to find out more about the work of

and the community continues to grow across the

the community. During the conference Therese

whole world. Anyone interested in the commu-

Maria and Isabel, pupils at St Joseph’s, Clydach,

nity should speak with Sean & Mabel Haran l

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The swedish chef S h a n e dav i e s p r o o v i n g h e’s n o m u p p e t i n t h e k i tc h e n at c h r i st m a s

sometimes even pepparkakor (a heart-star, or goat-shaped gingerbread biscuit). Traditional Christmas Eve dinner usually includes smorgasbord (cold dishes served buffet style, including open sandwiches, a variety of fish (salmon, herring, whitefish and eel), ham, small meatballs, head cheese and sausages, potato, boiled or potato casserole, soft and crisp bread, butter and different cheeses, beetroot salad, cabbage (red, brown or green) and rice Like in any other country, Christmas in Sweden is unique. You know it’s the start of Christmas when you smell the lussekatter (a rich yeastleavened sweet bun that is flavored with saffron and shaped like an ‘S’, decorated with currents) baking in the oven on the 13th December, known in Sweden as Luciadagen. Traditionally on this day, the eldest girl in the family portrays St Lucia, puts on a white robe in the morning and is allowed to wear a crown full of candles and evergreens. She then proceeds to wake her parents, and serves them with coffee and Lucia buns. The boys follow, dressed as star boys in long white shirts and pointed hats. Two days before Julafton (Christmas Eve), the tree is bought to the house and decorated candles, apples, Swedish flags, small gnomes wearing red tasseled caps, straw ornaments and 74

pudding and beverages), a Christmas ham, leverpastej (a pâté of livers and lard in the form of a smooth paste), prinskorv (small fried hot dog like sausages) and of course, the infamous lutfisk (made from dried whitefish such as cod or ling, prepared with lye in a sequence of particular treatments). After Christmas Eve dinner, a friend or family member dresses up as tomte or Christmas gnome. The tomte, unlike Santa Claus is supposed to live under the floorboards of the house or barn and ride a straw goat. The make-believe tomte, wearing a white beard and dressed in red robes, distributes gifts from his sack. Many gifts are given with a funny rhyme that hints at the contents. Finish the evening off with coffee, julmust, Glögg, cakes and biscuits and you can say you’ve had a good old Swedish Christmas.

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

Lussekatter

dough and let it rise for 30 minutes at room temperature.

These buns are what we eat on “Luciadagen”

5. Divide the dough into 25 pieces and roll the buns in

(the 13th December), flavored with golden saf-

an oblong shape, about 10 cm (4 in) long. Cover them

fron and dark raisins. I personally like to eat

and let rest for 10 minutes, then roll them twice as long

these just warm with a glass of milk or serve

and twist the ends of each bun in opposite directions to

with a cup of strong coffee (Swedish style). I’ll

form a sort of figure 8. Put one raisin in the middle of

mention the fact that saffron is quite expensive,

each half figure 8.

but these buns are normally made as a “once a

6. Place on a greased baking sheet and leave to rise

year treat”. And please DON’T, and I repeat

under a towel for about 90 minutes, or until the buns

DON’T use anything other than fresh yeast,

have doubled in size. Beat together the egg and water,

otherwise you’ll get a dense dough.

brush the mixture on the buns. Bake in the oven (220 degrees C/425 degrees F) for 5 minutes. 7. Allow to cool on the baking sheet.

Makes 25 buns 3 g saffron threads 50g fresh yeast 200g sugar 300ml milk 1 egg 150–200g butter 1 tsp salt 750g flour 100g raisins Glaze: 1 egg 2 tbs water 1. Grind the saffron along with a cube of sugar, using a mortar and pestle. 2. Crumble the yeast in a bowl and stir in a few tablespoons of milk. 3. Melt the butter and pour on the milk. Add the rest of the ingredients, except the raisins, and knead the dough in a dough mixer for 10 minutes. 4. Carefully mix in most of the raisins, cover the

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

skin of the fillet on top. 4. Tie up the bag and place in the fridge and allow curing for at least 24 hours, but for best results allow 48 hours, turning the bag every so often. 5. To serve, slice thinly and serve with rye bread and the mustard dressing (shown bellow) Mustard dressing 1 tbls swedish mustard

Gravad lax Call me biased, but I think that this the best fish dish ever. Traditionally served on rye with a mustard dressing and a simple salad. its a great starter if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to impress your guests, although its best to do this in advance of when you want to serve it in order to allow the curing process to take place. Its recommended that you freeze the salmon for 48hrs For the gravad lax 1 kg salmon fillet, skin on, pinboned (the

1-2 tbls french mustard 1 tbls caster sugar 1 tbls white wine vinigar 100ml rapseed oil/ sunflower Salt , white pepper, Dill (lots of it) 1. Mix both mustards, sugar and vinigar in a bowl. Using an electric whisk, whisk in the oil drop by drop. 2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally add the chopped fresh dill. (NOTE. If it should split, add a squeeze of lemon juice and stir.)

fishmonger will do this for you), frozen for 48 hours then allowed to defrost (cut in half) 3 tablespoons caster sugar 4 tablespoons sea salt 1 teaspoon white peppercorns 100g fresh dill (chopped) 1. Crush the white peppercorns with a pestle and mortar and mix with the salt and sugar. 2. Rub half this mixture on the flesh side of one of the salmon fillets and place skin side down in the bag. 3. Place the other fillet on top, making sure that the thicker part of fillet on top rests on the thinner part of the fillet bellow. Rub the rest of the mixture on the

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

after school clubs A g r e at v i cto ry f o r t h e st J o s e p h’s R u g b y L e ag u e t e a m

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

united nations I n t e r n at i o n a l c e l e b r at i o n s at S ac r e d H e a rt C h u r c h, Yst r a d g y n l a i s

The many events we celebrate together as a

parishioners as possible - Polish, Welsh, Gael-

community in Ystradgynlais. Including our an-

ic, Malayalam (Keralan), Italian, Tagalog, (Fili-

nual International Celebration where Mass is

pino) Mass is then followed by a party where

said incorporating the languages of as many

everyone brings food from their homeland.

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

art works “C r e at i v i t y i s co n tag i o u s, pa ss i t o n ” – A l b e rt E i n st e i n

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

• Artworks by the pupils of St. Joseph’s The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

memories r e m e m b e r i n g h a p p y t i m e s a n d t h e way w e w e r e

My name is Carol Mullany and I attended the

through the main entrance, and to keep the

Convent from 1954-1964 approximately. This

floor looking its best we had to put dusters on

is a class photo from when I was about five

our feet and slide around to shine it. My time

years old, I am in the middle row fourth from

at the Convent has many happy memories l

the left. The photograph was taken in the grounds of the Convent in front of the small

Story of Patricia Murphy,

Chapel and my teacher was Sister Josephine

Parishioner at St. Benedict’s.

Mary who was very nice. I still see some of

St Joseph’s Convent school opened as a private

my classmates who live near my father, Wayne

school in 1930 and I was the first pupil to ar-

Howells and Kevin Duffy. I remember the din-

rive on the first day. I was five years old and

ner hall at the time was situated under the main

it was my first school. I think I remember my

part of the school and it felt like you were go-

Mother telling me that the school fees worked

ing down into a dungeon with separate rooms

out at 2/6 per week, which was a lot of money

and a long table and benches. However, the

in those days. In the early days we were twelve

food was always lovely which had been cooked

in number but later it became a boarding school

by the Nuns in the bog kitchen, I loved help-

and several Italian children whose parents were

ing with the cooking except on Friday’s when

in business came and boarded. My particular

we had so much fish to cook.

friend was Rosina Baccicalupo from Ferndal

My second photograph was taken of me by

and she had twin brothers who boarded too.

my mother when I was eight years old when

My teacher was St. Patricia who was very strict

celebrating Corpus Christi. We would have

and inspiring and determined we would do well

a procession through the Convent, the boys

when we sat the scholarship.

would walk first carrying the statue of Our

We had the annual Corpus Christi procession

Lady and the girls would follow throwing rose

in the grounds when we threw flowers in front

petals from baskets. The occasion of Crown-

of the Blessed Sacrament.

ing Our Lady was very special and one I would

My time at the Convent helped me to pass my

look forward to every year. I remember there

scholarship to the grammar school in Swansea

was a beautiful hall as you entered the Convent

when I was aged ten years l

The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

The St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2013

Contact Fiona on T • 01792 865237 M • 07960 438961 • fiona@cwmshoncottageswales.co.uk

Best Self-catering Accommodation Finalist in TSB Awards 2010 You will love Cwmshon Cottages - two very

The cottages are also just 5 miles from the

special Five Star-graded luxury holiday

Brecon Beacons National Park. Whether you

cottages in Wales, set in a peaceful village

are a couple looking for a romantic last min-

location beside the tumbling Cwmshon river.

ute escape (with discounts for part use) or are

Here you can enjoy the best of both worlds

arranging a large group holiday for family or

– mountains and coast. Only 10 miles from

friends (each cottage sleeps 6 or 12 if booked

Swansea and Gower, with its many beautiful

together) we offer a real home from home

Blue Flag and award winning beaches - Rho-

experience. Everything is provided – all you

ssilli, Three Cliffs and Oxwich Bay.

need to bring are your clothes!

www.cwmshoncottageswales.co.uk

Brownsters Cafe Bre

akf ast

fro

m£ 2.50

Lunches • Jackets • Sandwiches • Toasties • Burgers 1 Capel Buildings, Clydach, Tel 07973 755594

Mon -Thurs 6am-5pm • Fri 6am -3pm • sat 6am-2pm

Manor Cabs

clydach ltd

Taxi Cabs & Minibus Service

01792 846464 / 844344 / 843838

Airports • Contracts • Courier Service Disability & Wheelchair friendly • 24Hr Friendly, reliable and competitive prices

No job too big or small email: manorcabsclydach@gmail.com

D & W Thomas are your local Ford dealer.

We cater for all motoring requirements and

We offer a first class service supplying new

we offer the following services to you:

and used Ford cars to our clients. All servicing and repairs are at reasonable

New car Sales

rates. Mot testing and pre MOT inspection

Service

service available.

Rapid Fit

We have a Large selection of new tyres in

Ford Used Cars

stock with fitting facilities .

Motability

Capel Road, Clydach, Swansea Tel: 01792 842529 Fax: 01792 843555

Ladies hair & Beauty tel: 01792 435512 • 8 HEBRON ROAD, Clydach, SWANSEA, SA6 5EJ

Hair design for men tel: 01792 842337 • 4 HEBRON ROAD, Clydach, SWANSEA, SA6 5EJ

Carol’s Flower Shop Flowers for all occasions

Wedding Bouquets Special Celebrations Funeral Tributes Cut Flowers Arrangements Balloons, Gifts, Cards

30 High street, Clydach • Telephone: (01792) 849195

Brian E. Duggan & sons Funeral Directors of Clydach

36 Heol -Y- Nant Clydach Swansea, SA6 5HB Telephone: (01792) 843373/844514 • 07788996393

Quality Builders

Ponty Butchers 71 Herbert Street, Pontardawe

Award winning Butchers 23 awards in 2012

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve tried the rest now try the best 01792 863197

Free local deliveries every Friday