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Journal St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
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Contents The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
04-05 Cathedral of the Valley
48-49 Portrait of Clydach
06-07 What’s in a Book?
50-51 Christmas Past
08-09 Your School Needs You!
52-53 Easter Parade
10-13
End of an Era
54-55 Dramatic Times
14-16
The Secret Garden
56-59 Passion Players
17-17
Good Foundations
60-61 Keep on Running
18-19
Sowing the Seeds
62-63 Having a Field Day
20-23 Hill of Welcomes
64-65 Trail Blazers
24-29 55 Nickel Terrace
66-67 Gaelic Athletic Associations
30-31 Once Upon a Time in Clydach
68-69 Time Bends
32-33 Cylch Chwarae
70-71 Memory Lane
34-35 Past Class Photos
72-73 Dydd Gwyll Dewi
36-37 Should Do Well
74-77 Good Neighbours
38-39 Circle of Life
78-79 Celebrating Community
40-41 Rainbow Club
80-81 Philosophy Club
42-43 Flower Power
82-83 A Clydach Ghost Story
44-45 Pack Up Your Troubles
84-87 Full on Welsh
46-47 Kites and Dippers
88-100 Sponsors & Adverts
Publishers Omadoig omadoig@btinternet.com Editor Elizabeth Rowden Design & Art Direction Páraic Maddock Managing Editor Juliet Stack Advertising Manager Catherine Hinder
Printers Cambrian Printers daijones@cambrian-printers.co.uk St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Pontardawe Road Clydach SWANSEA West Glamorgan SA6 5NX 01792 842494
Cover Design : St. Benedicts and The Sacred Heart Churches. By St Joseph’s Nursery Class & Páraic Maddock
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
03
• St. Vincent de Paul window in St. Benedicts Church Clydach 04
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
cathedral of the valley Helping people connect their faith with the world in which they live
I have had the great privilege of
Catholic life in the Swansea Val-
serving as a Priest in the Swansea
ley is dynamic, and the history of
Valley for a decade, since my ap-
this community is ever-unfolding
pointment in July 2002 as Parish
and has at its centre two vibrant
Priest of St Benedict’s Church,
parishes and an excellent Catholic
which the late Matthew Mulcahy
School: St Joseph’s, which is still
had once aptly described as ‘the
affectionately known by many as
Cathedral of the Valley.’
‘the Convent School.’
The opening of the Mond
This journal, which I hope will
Nickel Works in 1900, had seen
be the first of many, is a testimo-
a large influx of predominantly Irish Catholics
ny to the ‘living stones’ of the past, present and
into the Swansea Valley, and the first Mass was
future of the Catholic family here, and how we
celebrated by Father Anthony Cox OSB – the
are an integral part of the wider community of
first Parish Priest of Clydach and Ystradgynlais
this beautiful Valley.
in 1907.
Catholic life in the Valley has changed much
Father Cox celebrated Mass in Clydach,
since its humble beginnings with Fr Cox. Our
Ystradgynlais and Morriston, and would travel
community is now much more ethnically di-
up and down the Valley on his motorcycle and
verse. This year on the Feast of Pentecost, an
side car. St Benedict’s is the Mother Church of
International Mass was celebrated at the Sacred
the Sacred Heart Church in both Ystradgynlais
Heart Ystradgynlais in the various languages of
and Morriston.
our community – Malayalam, Tagalog, Irish,
On St David’s Day 2010 I was appointed as
English, Italian and Welsh. On that same after-
Parish Priest of the Sacred Heart in Ystradgyn-
noon, the Filipino Community held their annual
lais and in a very real sense history came full
Santa Cruzan festival in the grounds of St Bene-
circle, with the two parishes once again served
dict’s with a colourful and beautiful procession
by the same Priest for the first time since Fr Cy-
in honour of Mother Mary.
prian Alston relinquished pastoral responsibility
Let us always look toward the future of our
of Ystradgynlais in November 1930 to Father
community with confidence and hope.
O’Rourke in Ammanford.
Fr Teyrnon
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
05
What’s in a book? “The universal is the local without walls” Welcome to the first issue of the St. Joseph’s
most relevant format for our readership.
Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal. Our
In this electronic age of smartphones and Ipads
hope is that with your help and support we will
we felt printed books still do ‘memories’ best.
produce an annual publication to record and cel-
The physical mechanics of turning the pages,
ebrate the achievements of the school, the local
the folding of their edges and the notes scrib-
community and it’s people.
bled in margins. The pace the touch, the smell,
The inspiration for this production comes from the Parish of Kilmore across the
the convenience, the memories – they make books special.
Irish Sea not far from the port of Rosslare.
Careful consideration was paid to the
Being away from ‘home’ I always look forward
production values that would best reflect the
to the Kilmore Parish Journal’s arrival every
spirit of this venture. We chose Cambrian
Christmas. As the world slows down briefly at
Printers for their environmentally aware ap-
that time of the year, I visit my home village
proach to printing. They use vegetable based
and surroundings through it’s pages and see as
inks (generally soya) on Forest Stewardship
they say back ‘home’ “who’s made the journal
Council approved paper, running alcohol
this year.”
free presses, and using chemical free plates.
Through it’s pages I’ve followed the many changes in the community, the rise and fall of
We would like to thank Cambrian for all their help and support.
local sports teams and the adventures of old
Next to find the money for production.
schoolmates and friends. Alongside the current
Up stepped Catherine Hinder and within
news sits images and stories of the past, how
weeks, through her local connections and
our people before us worked, played and lived.
powers of persuasion, she surpassed all ex-
It reinforces a shared identity and sense of
pectations and monies required. If you see
place passed down through the generations.
her walking towards you holding a clipboard,
With this theme in mind and the sup-
your purse or wallet will be a little lighter
port of the school we decided to explore
by the time she leaves your company. All in a
the possibilities of producing our own jour-
good cause, thanks Catherine. A big thank you
nal. A printed journal was thought to be the
to all the local companies who took an advert
06
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
in or sponsored this School and Parish Journal. Without your support this publication would not have happened and we in turn urge everyone to support these local businesses when possible. Elizabeth Rowden was first choice for editor-in-chief due to her links with the school and local community. You would not be reading these words printed in soya ink on FSC approved paper if it was not for all her hard work and dedication to the cause. Thanks to all who contributed their stories in paticular the Clydach Historical Society and Carl Ryan for his photographic genius. A special mention also for Juliet Stack and her help in pushing the project over the finish line and organising it’s launch. We hope you can appreciate that the first issue of any publication begins from a standing start.
• Image by St Joseph’s nursery class • Intro quote Miguel Torga Who knows where we will be in forty years
We have tried to include content that speaks to but our initial aims are the same, to celebrate the all generations and members of the community. local community and what makes us who we are. There may be stories that you feel should have Thank you for buying this journal and we hope been included and we welcome all your submis- you will get behind it in the years to come. All sions for next years publication. The Kilmore money raised goes to St. Joseph’s School and the Parish Journal is now in it’s forty first year and local parish. I’d like to congratulate all concerned on a great
If nothing else it will make a great Christmas
achievement, their initial commitment to ‘re- present for someone. cording for posterity, the history and lore of the Páraic Maddock parish’ has been more than fulfilled.
omadoig@btinternet.com
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
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Your school needs you St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Parents, Teachers and Friends Association Since taking up the position of headteacher at
body there have been numerous opportunities for
St. Joseph’s I have always fully appreciated the sup-
parents and children to participate in a wide range
port received by the school from its parents. All
of social activities – quiz nights, auctions, mur-
successful schools strive to develop this impor-
der mystery evenings, fashion shows, fancy dress
tant relationship which is clearly of great benefit
discos, trips to the seaside, shopping trips, visits to
to children. One way of facilitating this develop-
Cheltenham races and theatre visits.
ment is the setting up of an active and commit-
Our greatest annual fundraiser, the Fête and
ted association of parents, teachers and friends of
Sports Day takes place on the first Saturday
the school who are committed to improving the
in July. In the months leading up to the event
educational facilities for our children.
parents and children are busy preparing for the
All parents, teachers and friends of St. Joseph’s
big day - and saying daily prayers for fine weath-
are invited to get involved in the PTFA. A long es-
er! In addition to raising significant funds the
tablished association which has benefitted our pu-
event is a tremendous community occasion and
pils in countless ways over the years including the
attracts hundreds of children, parents, grandpar-
refurbishment of the library, the purchase of car-
ents and friends who enjoy the wide variety of
pets and blinds for classrooms, the provision of
attractions on offer – stalls, competitions, games,
musical instruments and the fitting of curtains for
refreshments and many more. The day also
the assembly hall. In recent years the PTFA’s main
includes a football tournament for eight lo-
focus has been IT and the provision of interactive
cal or Catholic Schools which culminates in the
whiteboards, projectors, digital cameras and digi-
presentation of the St. Joseph’s PTFA Cup.
tal microscopes in all classrooms which has been
In conclusion, it is fair to say that St. Joseph’s
achieved with a major input from PTFA funds.
PTFA is a vital organisation which helps us to
The association also pays the annual lease for
provide our pupils at St. Joseph’s with the best
the school’s twenty five computers, located in all
possible resources and educational opportuni-
classrooms and the computer area in the main
ties. On this basis I would like to sincerely thank
building. This provision has obviously improved
everyone who has been involved in the activities
access to IT for all pupils and has helped raise
of the PTFA over the years and look forward
standards in this key skill.
with great anticipation to this year’s Annual Fete
Although the PTFA is primarily a fundraising
08
and Sports on Saturday 7th July. Michael Way
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
09
End of an era A sad goodbye to the Ursuline Sisters, loved and respected by the community.
• Mass c 1974 On 4th July 1996 Monsignor Canon Clyde
next day. Also among the worshippers who
Hughes Johnson celebrated the last Mass to
packed into the tiny chapel were Matthew
be said in the chapel of St. Joseph’s Convent
Mulcahy and Annie White who had attended
in Clydach. It was an unique and sad occasion
the first Mass to be said in the Convent back
for those who were privileged to be present,
in 1927.
but for seven people it was a particularly poi-
When the Mass was over, the Blessed Sacra-
gnant service. Sisters Winifred Quinlan, Wini-
ment was carried in solemn procession from
fred Madden, Frances and Carmella were the
the Convent to St. Benedict’s Church. It was
final Ursuline Sisters to live at the Convent
a dull and blustery morning as the procession
and Miss Mary Bringoli who had been there
wound its way slowly down the drive, past
for over fifty years, would all move out the
the school where the children lined up to pay
10
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
Manor Park • The Sister’s Convent House, Ynys penllwch House © Clydach Historical Society their respects, and on towards Pontardawe
When it became known thatthe Convent
Road. Leading the way was a crucifix held
had been sold and that the sisters were
aloft by Mr Bryan Jones followed by Monsei-
moving out, the Community of Clydach felt a
gnor Johnson who was carrying the Blessed
great sense of loss. In the midst of this busy
Sacrament. Holding a ceremonial canopy with
industrial village surrounded by the hurly burly
great difficulty in the high wind were four men
of 21st century life, the Convent provided an
who regularly attended Mass at the Convent.
oasis of peace and prayer that would be very
The rest of the procession comprised of Pa-
difficult to replace.
rishioners of St. Benedict’s Church and chil-
The Ursulines first came to Swansea in 1860
dren of St. Joseph’s School which had been
with some French and some Irish sisters. In
founded by the Ursuline Sisters.
1911 they were given permission by the Poor
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
11
Law Guardians to open a home for children
but soon the Sisters opened their own school.
at Ynys House near Clydach. In the early
In 1927 the lease ran out on Ynys house, but
days life was quite hard. The sisters received
fortunately the sister’s were offered a sub ten-
five shillings for each child and had to grow
ancy on Ynyspenllwch House and they moved
a lot of their own food and also kept pigs
there in 1927. Through the thirties and forties
and chickens. To make ends meet they had to
the sister’s became a familiar sight around the
look for charitable contributions in Swansea
village giving help to all who were in need and
and around the valleys. In spite of opposition
becoming loved by the whole community.
from some people in the village, St. Joseph’s
From 1927 until 1970 the sisters ran the
Home and the Sisters became well respected
Children’s Home and a very successful private
and successful, looking after up to fifty boys
school at St. Joseph’s Convent. One incident
and girls up to the age of twelve.
in 1956 enabled the sisters to purchase the
At first the children went to Glais school
house and grounds outright. The Mond Nick-
• The Ursuline Sisters and children of St. Joseph’s 12
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
el Works made test drillings with a view to
brought an end to over eighty years of Ursu-
extending the works by building factory units,
lines educating and caring for the children of
which if successful would mean that the Con-
the Swansea Valley.
vent would be closed. All the Sisters gathered
A visiting French Benedictine Priest wrote in
in the chapel and prayed that the tests would
the visiting book of the Convent in 1912 a line
fail, which they duly did and this resulted in
that could serve as an epitaph for the Ursuline
the house and grounds being sold to the Ur-
Sisters in the Swansea Valley ; “The happiness
suline Order.
of the children is the glory of the Sisters”.
In 1970 the school was taken over by the Local Education Authority with Sister Bren-
Grateful thanks to Mr.Peter Daley of
dan Mary as Headmistress. Sister Brendan
Clydach Historical Society for allowing us to repro-
was succeeded by Sister Angela Mary and fi-
duce this article from the Clydach Historical Society’s
nally Sister Sarah who retired in 1997 which
Spring Newsletter in 1997.
• Sister Mary Thomas organises the childrens offertory procession The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
13
The secret Garden Kathleen Sweeney, her time at St. Joseph’s Convent Clydach 1946–1956 The first time I saw the Convent I was just six
washed walls. There were five of them which
years of age. I remember walking down a long
were used for the day pupils and one on its own
drive and when my Mother and I came to
for boarders and orphans. They were separated
the end of the drive I looked up and saw an
from us. The refectories, as they were called, had
immense building in front of me. I had
long wooden tables and benches on either side.
never seen a building like that. As we walked in to
Three of the refectories were used for the daily
what was the yard for children to play in, to the
pupils who ate hot lunches. The boys and girls
left of me I saw what looked like a large green
were separated, as were the infants. The last refec-
house. I later learnt it was where we were to have
tory of all was for those who brought sandwiches
assemblies and prayers other than when it was
to school. It was cold down there.
dry then prayers would be outside. We also had
We used to have processions through the
our School Concerts in St. Ursula’s that what it
grounds on the feast of Corpus Christi where
was called.
we would sing hymns and say prayers whilst
We went up a set of steps and were met by a
walking, and then we would have benediction
Nun called Sister Helen, who I understood also
in the grounds and walk back to the lawn, out-
worked in the kitchens. We were taken upstairs
side the chapel, where we would have Mass. Af-
by Sister Helen to see the Reverend Mother. Any
ter that, there would be tables and chairs set out
time after that if I went to see her, it was either
under a big copper beech tree where we could
our birthday, where we would be given a holy pic-
have tea for the adults and soft drinks for the
ture and a sweet , or we would be sent up there if
children. The adults would bring sandwiches,
we were naughty , then we would be given a right
have a picnic and everyone would be dressed
telling off. Not very nice!
in their best clothes. There would be people
On cold rainy days, the Nuns in the kitchens
from all over, about two hundred or more if
would warm our bottles of milk, and we would
the weather was good. The Parents would then
have them in St. Ursula’s. Otherwise we would
go and see the work their children had done,
have cold milk in the yard if it was fine.
ie. sewings and paintings. When the girls had
The place where we had dinners was the old
sewing, they would go to the nuns community
wine cellar, but at that time we did not know what
room to use the treadle machine; it was hard
they were, we thought they were dungeons: white
to work.
14
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
• The gateway to the secret garden. Photograph by Mark Brannigan The Clydach & Ystradgynlais Parish Journal 2012
• Procession of the Crowning of Mary
• Celebrating Corpus Christi © Clydach Historical Society
During the month of May, we would also have
would help us to work out any problems we
processions for the crowning of the statue of
would have with certain subjects. They really
Our Lady which was in the grounds. Some of
made us work at our problems until we could
the girls would be dressed in white dresses with
do it. While we were there all the other pupils
blue capes, the older girls would carry a small
were either having music or gym. We thought it
statue, in front would be six or eight smaller
very unfair at the time, but it was really for our
girls with baskets of flower petals which would
own good.
be strewn in front and a little girl would be carrying the crown on a cushion.
Form five was held in the old stables, we had to climb a flight of stairs to get up to it. Every
On fine days we would go over the field’s to
Friday Sister Patricius would choose one of us
play. The girls would go on the swings in turns
to clean the ink wells before we went home. We
or play on the bars. The boys would play foot-
had to be very careful it could be very messy
ball or cricket in the adjoining field. There was
otherwise.
a walled garden near the football field, some
Form six was taught by Mother Philomenia.
of us used to call it the secret garden as we
The boys would be on one side of the room
were not allowed in there. It was where all the
and the girls on the other. In the winter the girls
vegetables were grown; these were used in the
were lucky as they were on the side of the fire.
convent. In a plot of ground by the side of the
Mother Philomenia could be very strict if you
yard there were chickens, we used to watch the
were misbehaving. But, she had a lovely smile
nuns feed them and sometimes we would see
and was nice to you if you were good. Before
them coming back with eggs.
I left school at the age of fifteen she had be-
When we were old enough for eleven plus
come Mother Superior. I enjoyed my time at St.
scholarships if any of us needed extra tuition
Joseph’s and was sad when I had to leave.
we would have to go to the room called the
They were happy days.
“commercial room” where one of the nun’s
Kathleen Sweeney
16
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
good foundations Time changes but the people and the parish community carry on! I was privileged to be a pupil at St. Joseph’s
for St. Patrick’s day and Celtic evenings for St.
Convent School and have many happy memo-
David, with lots of singing and dancing. Wav-
ries. The sisters were strict but fair and gave us
ing the jumbalance off to Lourdes with Sister
a good foundation in our faith. We had lunch-
Kathleen and her group was very moving with
es in the refectory, singing in St. Ursula’s and
the children singing “Ave Maria” and “Holy
were allowed to roam free at playtimes to be
Virgin”.
summoned by the bell for afternoon prayers.
Of course our school has developed over
I made friends with the children who were
the years and the early years block where I now
boarders and they often came to tea. I par-
teach was once the old stables where Sister Win-
ticularly enjoyed Corpus Christi, when families
ifred taught. Time changes but the people and
from all the neighbouring parishes would come
the parish community carry on!
together to celebrate feast days.
Delia Ryan
And so to the present day – I am now a teacher at St. Joseph’s School. It is a pleasure to teach members of the same families as they come through school. It seems to bring a continuity to when the Parish/school link was started, long long ago, when my Grand father Michael Murphy along with the Ryans, Mulcahy, Marnells to name but a few were instrumental in building our church and school. The Ursuline sisters played such an important role in Clydach and we were all sorry when their time here had to end. We celebrated many happy times, Sister Placida making us cakes and Irish coffees
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
17
• Above : Mrs James always lends a helping hand. Below: nursery children celebrate our green flag
18
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
Sowing the seeds Memories of times and people past – seeds sown for the future As a former pupil and now
the sad time of the Sister’s leav-
teacher at St. Joseph’s, I feel so
ing and Sister Sarah O’Dwyer’s
lucky to have enjoyed so many
death. What a loss to us all who
years at the school. My experi-
loved the beauty that all those el-
ences of being outdoors as a
ements brought to our lives and
pupil and teacher in the school
helped to form and shape us in
environment that allowed me to
early and latter years. It was time
develop a love for outdoor learn-
to give something of that era
ing, which I hope I now pass on
back. So, with much support of
to my pupils.
colleagues, parents, friends and
My earliest memories are of idyllic long sum-
family we have brought some of those experi-
mers, where the back door to my current year
ences to our current children at St. Joseph’s. It is
one class was thrown open to release us all into
a privilege to work on “Wellie Wednesday” and
the fantastic grounds of the Convent house
“Fit Friday” and I still feel we have a stunning
(now Manor Park). I remember autumns, seeing
location in which to learn outdoors.
the leaves change so vividly in close proximity
The late Peter James (my first brother in law)
to my class, wonderful walks collecting an array
instigated much of the early work setting up the
of nature’s harvest. I remember Mrs. Rowntree
pond and nature reserve area at the back of early
selling 2p lollies, lovely playtimes in fields and
years, in my day the old stables classroom. After
investigating the grounds and walls of the secret
Peter’s untimely death due to cancer we took on
garden. We used to see John the gardener caring
his plans to develop the grounds further.
for the grounds and Sister Francis with Prince
We were successfully awarded our green flag
the dog whilst playing football with teams of
on 13th October 2011, a special day for Mrs.
children. We had the pleasure of learning about
Stack and I, it would have been sixteen years
weather, seasons, plants, trees etc all at first hand.
since Peter, Juliet Stack’s first husband’s death. A
It was great for us growing up, no other school
fitting tribute to his anniversary and the memo-
could compare to what we had at St. Joseph’s.
ries of the Sisters who have inspired me to work
My early teaching years saw the loss of the beautiful Convent house, gardens and grounds,
in the school grounds. Elizabeth Rowden
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
19
• Coed Gwilym Parc by Diane Trenoweth
that hill of Welcomes The contribution one immigrant made to this community and the cultural heritage of two nations Pádraig Ó Míléadha was born in West Water-
language. Irish like the shamrock in the famous
ford, in the district known since as ‘Na Déise’
song, was “by law forbid” to be taught in Irish
(‘The Decies’), in 1877. He was brought up
schools. As a teenager he made it his business to
by his grandfather, Muiris who could speak
acquire those skills on his own initiative.
no English. Yet when Pádraig had completed
About 1903 Pádraig left Ireland and end-
his elementary education at the local National
ed up in Clydach in the Swansea Valley. He
School, where teacher Patrick Keating ensured
found employment in the local Mond Nickel
that he was given a thorough grounding in Eng-
Works and eventually met and married Ellen
lish, he could neither read nor write in his home
Cullinan, who had also emigrated from ‘Na Dé-
20
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
ise’. Their children went to the local Catholic
to confront a land in the throes of civil war.
school where they found themselves immersed
After many months of hardship, endured with
in English which was the only language of edu-
the help of family and friends, Pádraig succeed-
cation in Wales at that time. However, they lived
ed in getting a job as a teacher of Irish.
in an area where practically everyone spoke
He remained in that post until his health broke
Welsh so the children learned some Welsh infor-
during the Second World War. He died in 1947
mally, especially songs.
and was buried in the cemetery at Túr an Fhíona
Pádraig, however, was mainly concerned
(‘ Tooraneena’).
about his own language and devoted himself to
Then, in 1977, 100 years after his birth, the
the work of ‘Conradh na Gaeilge’ (the ‘Gaelic
President of Ireland, Cathal Ó Dálaigh, unveiled
League’, founded in 1893 by Douglas Hyde)
a plaque placed over his grave. Why, one might
which in those years had a network of branches
ask, would the President of Ireland be interested
in South Wales. He was in great demand as a
in such an apparently ordinary chap?
teacher at the evening classes arranged by the
Although he had never received more than the
‘Conradh’, sometimes travelling as far as Mer-
elementary education offered at his local school
thyr Tydfil after completing an exhausting day at
and had spent almost twenty years as a factory
the nickel works.
worker, he had always been interested in books,
He got involved in local politics and was elect-
literature, music and song. During the years in
ed a member of the parish council, holding his
Clydach his children inherited a tradition of Irish
seat until he returned to Ireland.
music, song and dance which his grandchildren
He was also very interested in political devel-
and great grandchildren maintain to this day. He
opments in Ireland in the years leading up to the
himself wrote verses, poems and songs in both
First World War – he even organised a local ‘bat-
English and Irish which are now a cherished part
talion’ of volunteers prepared to fight for Home
of the cultural heritage of County Waterford.
Rule – they drilled using brushes and shovels and
Two of his compositions have a particular
paraded around the area to the tolerant amuse-
link with Wales. The first is his masterpiece, Trí
ment of their Welsh neighbours!
Glúine Gaedheal (‘Three Irish Generations’), a
He took an active part in trade union activi-
poetic record of some of the events of Irish
ties at his workplace and finally lost his job there
history from the 1840s to the 1930s. The final
because he took the side of the workers during a
part of the 112 page work deals with his own
strike which closed the Mond Nickel Works for
experiences in Wales and with his return to Ire-
three months in 1922.
land. Here is a completely unexpected eyewit-
He went back to Ireland with his wife and
ness account of the experiences of an Irish
children. The family had been impoverished
emigrant in the Swansea Valley in the early years
during the long strike and in Ireland they had
of this century. He describes the lone voyage,
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
21
the first sounds of Welsh, the search for work,
The golden tide just by me
the almost lunar landscape of rapid develop-
Is twixt me and my heart’s land,
ment, the frenzy of the people caught up in the
O bright Sliabh gCua of the welcomes,
maelstrom, the Dante–like scenes in a coalmine,
My story is not so grand.
the noxious fumes that daily assailed the workers in the nickel factory, the work of the trade
Were I among my own folk,
union, and the strike that resulted in his return to
Kindly men in Skeheens green,
Ireland. This unique book is in stock at Cardiff
Where the heat of the sun is scattered
Central Library.
From a sky of flawless sheen;
The second composition of note is his song, Sliabh Geal gCua, a poem in song about the
Oh, were I now beneath the stars
mountain ranges of the Knockmealdowns that
As dew falls on grass there,
has become accepted as one of Ireland’s greatest
Oh, you bright Sliabh gCua,
songs of exile and one of the classics of the lan-
‘Twould be an gift so rare!
guage this century. It was written in Wales. Pádraig would often go with his wife and chil-
Oh, I am sad that I wasn’t reared
dren to the seaside – Swansea Bay, Mumbles, the
With learning and with art,
many coves of Gower. There he would sit and
In the noble melodious Irish tongue
think of his childhood home, of his own language
My mouth would have its part;
and of the grand old people who had spoken that language all around him in his earliest years. One day, either as he sat by the sea or back
And I would go back across the sea, And I would give you pride,
home in Clydach, he wrote down the lovely
And I would love to see, Sliabh gCua,
words which we reproduce below together in
Your fame go worldwide!
English translation. The first verse above followed by a new trans-
There is my love, the Decies,
lation into Welsh was sung in Cardiff on St. Pat-
Every meadow, hill and vale,
rick’s Day 2003.
Since I came o’er the mighty sea
Patrick Tobin
I have grown weak and pale;
Bright Sliabh gCua
But since God Himself has called me here,
O bright Sliabh gCua of the welcomes,
My greetings go back home,
You are far from me, my home,
Back to that hill of welcomes,
As I sit I am weak with sorrow,
From my heart, with love alone!
Here by this sea alone;
Pádraig Ó Míléadha
22
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
• Sheet music and Irish language version of Sliabh gCua. • Sliabh Geal gCua na Féile - Mary Greene, www.youtube.com
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
23
• Margeretta Millea, memeories of her father and 55 Nickel Terrace 24
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
55 Nickel Terrace Margaretta Millea – childhood memories of Clydach I was born and went to school in Clydach near
Dad was night shift and of course I always had a
Swansea, South Wales. There were three of us in
piece of toast. He would sit outside the bed and
the family, Pat the eldest, myself, and Maurice. I
relate all the night’s happenings to my Mother.
had some very early memories of those days. I
One morning he told her of an accident that
remember sitting in the parlour looking across at
happened during the night. One of the men
my mother who was in bed with a new baby. The
got something in his eyes. He ran to the first aid
bed must have been brought down stairs and the
department and grabbed the wrong bottle from
baby was Maurice. I’d say I was not much more
the shelf. He poured it into his eyes but it was a
than 3 years old. I remember coming downstairs
bottle of acid. The man did not live very long
in the morning when my father was not work-
after. My mother was kept busy looking after
ing, he would lift me up on his shoulders and
us. She was very strict. Some of her training has
give me a ride around the kitchen. I have faint
stayed with me until today. My father was always
recollection of that coming to an end. I can also
involved with local affairs. I remember standing
remember sitting on my father’s foot when his
at the door when I was very young and looking
legs were crossed, he would swing his foot and
at an old car passing with a poster on which read
of course I would enjoy that.
“Vote for P Millea”. The result was that he was
We lived at 55 Nickel Terrace now called Lone Road Clydach. I started school at 5 years of age.
a successful Parish Councillor, a post held until we left Wales.
They were happy days. My father worked at the
Both my parents played music, the concertina
Mond Nickel Works. He was a very hard work-
being their favourite instrument. All my memo-
ing man and very useful with his hands. Most of
ries are of music, song and dance. My brother
our furniture was made by him and finished with
Pat and I were sent to music lessons when we
the most beautiful fretwork designs. My father’s
were very young. The main enjoyment I got out
job in the Mond involved shift work. When
of going for my lessons was carrying the violin
Dad was working nights he would always bring
down the street so that the people would see me.
Mother a cup of tea and toast. I always looked
Music lessons were so rare in the village at that
forward to that as I always slept with Mam when
time. I took violin lessons for a while with a lady
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
25
• Clydach High Street, Carpenters Arms on the right © Clydach Historical Society whose name was Mrs Bally. I heard my mother
once a week. The lady who took charge gave her
saying that this lady’s father was German and of
services free solely for her love of music. My
course we were led to believe that all Germans
mother started teaching me dancing – when I
were wonderful musicians. Mrs Bally had three
was a very small child. I always tried to do my
in the family and her husband was working in
best as she got very cross. The reel was my first
the Mond Nickel Works. She was a very busy
dance I learned and I remember she was teach-
lady, so busy that she never had time to sit down
ing me to promenade step of the reel and I just
during my lessons. She was always out in the
could not do it right. I was slapped and put to
back kitchen either washing dishes or preparing
bed. I remember getting out of bed and practis-
her husbands evening meal and at the same time
ing it until I got it right. I plucked up enough
listening to me scratching away at the violin in-
courage and went down stairs and meekly asked
side. She was very musical and would always ac-
if I did it properly could I stay up a while longer
company me in her very high-pitched voice.
and although I was only about five years of age I
There was a Hall attached to the Mond Nickel
was successful and was allowed to stay up.
Works where all the children of the employees
There was no Catholic school in Clydach in
learning music could practise for two hours
those days. Mass used to be said in the Convent
26
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
in the Village as there was no church either. The
first time I went to Mass in Ireland after leaving
Convent was an orphanage run by the Ursuline
Wales I could just not understand why the Nuns
Nuns. It was a beautiful old building very like
did not occupy the left hand side of the church.
Mucross Abbey. I can just remember being at
It took me quite a while to get used to Mass on
Mass there once and I could not make out where
Sunday without the nuns and the children. There
the singing was coming from as the choir was
was a colliery about a mile from our house at the
not to be seen. The Hall we had Mass in was
foot of the mountain and every morning the men
so small and even though the Catholics were
would pass on their way to work. They seemed
scarce, the singers were in another upstairs room
to walk in procession. Then in the evening they
in view of the Altar. I learned of that after, of
would pass back covered all over in coal dust.
course. When I was a few years older there was
That happened every day except Sunday. We got
a Catholic Church built at a place called Pon-
used to watching them. Sometimes they would
tardawe Road. My father was one of the found-
carry a stretcher after one of the men had an ac-
er members. He was also involved in collecting
cident in the mine. We often went up to see the
money for the nuns, as well as organising fund
trolley going along the dark entrance. The col-
raising functions for the Church. Although we
liers used to carry lamps and their faces would
had to go to a Protestant school with a few other
be covered. The Mond Nickel Works was down
Catholics we were all very happy together. All
from our house in the opposite direction from
the teachers were welsh, as were a number of
the colliery. There used to be another procession
the pupils. I could understand quite a lot of the
of men going that way every day. My mother
language going to school. I also learned some
asked Muiris one day what he would like to be
welsh songs.
when he grew up “I would like to be a man”, he
Our religious lives were spent in the follow-
said which of the crowds he favoured I do not
ing way: Monthly confessions and Holy Com-
know. Pat’s favourite game was rugby – I never
munion. Mass every Sunday morning at 11 am.
saw him playing any other game in Wales, - while
Religious instruction was given every Sunday at
Muiris’s favourite game was cricket. There was a
the convent by the nuns, Benediction every Sun-
field at the back of the house and Muiris would
day night which used to involve a lot of singing.
spend every evening playing with a few of his
I can remember answering “ Ora pro nobis”. We
pals. When I was young I thought, wouldn’t it
also had to attend Benediction every Wednesday
be lovely if everybody was as brainy as dad. Al-
and Friday. We really spent a lot of time at the
though I was young I realised in my childish way
Church and Convent. The nuns and orphans al-
that he was out of the ordinary. Then when I
ways sat at the left hand side of the church from
began to have interests of my own I changed
the main door. They had a beautiful choir; in fact
my mind and thought, how silly I was to think
we joined the choir before we left Wales. The
of such a thing. Then again when I really got
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
27
• Saturday Picture Show at the Globe © Clydach Historical Society more sense I thought my first impression must
mother, it was a dark night and I fell and hit my
have been right after all. Pat was attending Cly-
head on a sharp stone. As a result of the fall I
dach boy’s school and although his health was
had a nasty hole in my head. The mark is still
very bad he started studying for a scholarship
there. I was very ill and developed scarlet fever.
to Pontardawe Secondary School. During this
I was brought away in a cab to Pontardawe Fe-
preparation for the exam he spent some time in
ver Hospital where I spent a couple of months.
Swansea hospital suffering from TB glands in
One Sunday morning my mother called us to
his neck. He underwent an operation the result
go to Holy Communion. Dad was working
being a scar from ear to ear. Not very long after
nights. We were only out of bed when there
coming out of hospital he sat for the Oxford
was a knock at the door. I went downstairs
Senior examination and was successful.
with my mother in my night gown. When she
We moved from 55, Nickel Terrace to a
opened the door there were two men holding a
house not far away. The district was called Sun-
stretcher and Dad was lying on it and looked as
nybank and the house was 13, Kelvin Road.
if he was dying. He had an accident ,his leg was
When I was about nine years old I had a bad
broken in two places. My mother told us to get
fall when running home with a message for my
dressed and go to Holy Communion which was
28
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
always given before Mass. My father was laid up
Fr Cox. He had a most unusual soft voice –
for three months and my mother nursed him
like velvet. Whenever I hear Dr Simm’s voice
with the help of a public health nurse. We all
on television I think of Fr Cox. I had a friend
missed him very much as he was always helpful
whose parents came from Kilkenny. Her name
in every way. We were delighted when the time
was Nellie Marnell, (she was killed during the
came and he was on his feet again.
Second World War when the building were she
I can remember some Irish families in Cly-
worked suffered a direct hit). Nellie and I used
dach at the time; The Marnells from Kilkenny,
to go around to the Catholics every week col-
Mylers and Purcells from Wexford, Healys,
lecting for the church. The Church collection
O’Briens and Howley’s from Currick-on-Suir,
was called the “Altar Society”. We would both
Ryans Duggans and Tierneys from Waterford
go into the priest’s house on Sunday after Mass
and last but not least Padraig O’ Sulleabain
with our few shillings. Fr Cox’s house seemed
from Cork. Padraig was teaching in Cork be-
cold and bare and gave the impression of being
fore he went to Wales. He was a native Irish
very poor. In any case, people had very little to
speaker. The small Irish group got together
spare in those days and I would say Fr. Cox had
and built the church hall near the church. One
less than most.
of the first functions was a sale of work for
I remember being allowed to go to the pic-
church funds and with the help of our Protes-
tures sometimes on a Saturday afternoon. The
tant friends it was great success. Both my par-
charge was then one penny. The owner of the
ents were very active in helping the church. I
picture house as confined to a wheelchair. His
remember when an organ was needed a lady by
name was Steel Parry. I was too young to en-
the name of Mrs Michael O’Sullivan and my
quire if Steel was really his Christian name. He
mother travelled around Clydach from door
was a very busy man as besides being owner
to door collecting money in order to purchase
of the picture house he was also a photogra-
an organ. There efforts were fruitful and their
pher. The building was made of timber with a
ambition was realized. After Benediction on
clay floor covered with hay. We thought it was
Sunday evenings we used to follow our parents
wonderful. It was just as wonderful to us at that
to the Hall. Padraig O’Sullivan’s wife and my
time as the cinema is to children today. After a
mother used to give dancing practice, solo and
time a second picture house opened in the Vil-
ceili. The Irish men held meetings sometimes
lage. It was an improvement on the first, yet we
discussing collections for the volunteers in
still supported our much admired Steel Parry.
Dublin. My father joined a number of organi-
By Margaretta Millea
sations. I had a framed certificate of his mem-
Grateful thanks to Mr.Peter Daley of Clydach
bership of the Self-determination League. The
Historical Society for allowing us to reproduce
priest of the parish was an Englishman called
this article.
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
29
Once upon a time in Clydach How Mussollini started one family’s journey to Clydach.
My story begins before I was
Dino, Uncle Bruno and Uncle
born. It is during the second
Ronnie are sent to stay in St.
world war and the Italian dic-
Joseph’s Convent ,Clydach. My
tator Mussollini has decided to
Uncle’s stay at the convent un-
side with the Germans. My Ital-
til the war is over and then the
ian Grandparents are running a
family is reunited to continue
cafe business in Cardiff. They
running the family business for
have five sons (one of them be-
the next fifty years. The busi-
ing my Dad). In the middle of
ness was the Clifton Cafe, Car-
the night the local police knock
diff. My Dad meets my Mum
on the door of the cafe to ‘arrest’ my Nonno
when they are fifteen years old. They continue
as an enemy of the state, his only crime is be-
to see each other and marry in 1959. During
ing an Italian citizen. My Nanna is left with
this time my Mum along with her sister, Aun-
five children to look after and a business to
tie Jean, spend time looking after the children
run. The cafe is boarded up to protect it and
at Nazareth House, Cardiff. One boy catches
my Nanna is told to leave Cardiff. She is taken
my Mum’s eye, his name is Paul. When Paul
to a shop in Pentre, above a bakery where she
reaches the age of five, he is sent to Naza-
has to stay. Uncle Mario, the eldest, and my
reth house in Bishopston, Swansea. He con-
Dad, the second eldest stay with her. Uncle
tinues to spend school holidays with my Mum
30
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
• Opposite left to right , the Segadilli boys, Mario 8, Luigi 10 & Roberto 5 • Above left to right the Carpanini brothers, Mario, Dino, Joey (my Dad) & Ronnie and Dad. Paul is not having a happy time, he
introduced to Anthony and we discover that
spends two years at St. Joseph’s Convent, Cly-
he was a good friend of Anthony’s Nonno,
dach. At the age of sixteen Paul is officially
Luigi. Small world! We marry in Cardiff, July
fostered by my parents and comes to live with
1982. Our first son, Luigi, is born in 1982, fol-
us in Cardiff. During the next few years we
lowed by Mario, born in 1986. Roberto our
would spend many a Sunday afternoon ‘hav-
third son is born in 1990. Guess where they
ing tea with the nuns in the convent’. We
all go to school? Yes you’ve guessed it St. Jo-
would travel down from Cardiff to spend the
seph’s Clydach.
afternoon in the Convent with Sister’s Finton,
Our local Parish is The Sacred Heart Church,
Margaret Teresa, Winifred, Patricia, Angela,
Morriston. The boys all received First Holy
Magdaleine and Reverend Mother Regina.
Communion and Confirmation under the
We all thoroughly enjoyed our time and have
guidance of Father Morrissey. Six years ago
many happy memories.
we made a decision to move to St. Benedict’s
Wind the clock on to 1981 when I meet An-
Clydach, where we attend Mass. We both feel
thony Segadelli, who lives in Morriston, Swan-
very much part of the community among the
sea. He is of Italian parentage, like me, and his
Parishioners.
family are from the same village in Northern
Special thanks to Father Teyrnon for mak-
Italy, Bardi, as my family are. At my 21st birth-
ing us feel so welcome.
day party, at my house, my Nonno Antonio is
Nicola Segadelli
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
31
Cylch Chwarae St.Joseph’s Parent’s and Toddler Group At St. Joseph’s School Clydach, Thursday is
snacks for the little ones and a welcome coffee
playgroup day – a place where glitter and glue
and biscuit for the adults! Birthdays and other
is for every week, not just Christmas! Estab-
special occasions are always celebrated in style at
lished five years ago, Cylch Chwarae San Joseff
our playgroup! Santa makes an appearance every
is a bi-lingual Parent and Toddler group which
Christmas and always departs with a sackful of
meets in the school hall from 9.15 to 11.15 in
presents generously donated by the adults for
term time. Over the years the group has flour-
the SVP appeal. Last term we celebrated Dydd
ished attracting families not only from the local
Santes Dwynwen, St.Valentine’s Day, St. David’s
community but from further afield as well. Both
Day and held an Easter party complete with a
my colleague Claire Walsh and I strive to deliver
parade of beautiful bonnets!
high quality pre-school provision for children
The playgroup is an ideal place to come and
0-3 years with active parental/carer participation
meet new people and gives parents and carers
encouraged and supported.
a chance to engage in a little adult conversation!
Our morning is semi-structured with plen-
(which does not necessarily have to include the
ty of time for free play, art and craft activities
words ‘Peppa Pig’ or ‘Pingu’! We are a friendly
(frequently involving the aforementioned glitter
and welcoming bunch here at St. Joseph’s so
and glue!), music making and singing (in both
why not pop in one Thursday?
welsh and English), parachute games, sand play
Croeso I bawb! Everyone Welcome!
and story time. At ‘half time’ we provide healthy
Rhian Weaver
32
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
• Mr Gareth Jones & class, 1975
• Sister Winifred & year 6, 1976
34
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
• Mr Gareth Jones & class
• Sister Angela (headmistress) & class
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
35
Should Do well A steady worker who is always helpful. With a B in music and a C in religion what would the future hold for this past pupil of St. Joseph’s?
• Above, looking straight at the camera and below , front row third from the left but can you recognise this former pupil?
36
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
37
The circle of life Treasured times of family, school and a real lion king
• The Hinder Family celebrate David’s 18th birthday with a great night had by all
Mrs. Catherine Hinder ( School report is on
interested in a job as a dinner lady, Catherine put
previous page) moved from Talgarth in Brecon
up her hand and volunteered her Mum for the
when she was seven in 1970. Catherine has a
job, working an hour a day, later she increased
long history with our school and is very much
her hours and worked in the kitchen as well.
part of its fabric, coming here as a small child, later as a parent and then as an employee.
Catherine’s lovely Mum is fondly remembered by many of us who grew up in that time
Catherine recalls that she got her Mum Doreen
as a very kind caring lady who always helped
Boyle a job at St. Joseph’s Primary School when
us little ones in any way she could. Catherine’s
she began as a pupil there. She vividly remem-
Mum retired at sixty five after twelve years of
bers Mother Brendan asking was anyone’s Mum
work here at St. Joseph’s.
38
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
Catherine has kept up the family tradition, she
David also attended many of the village
began working here after many years of cook-
playgroups even though he was tube fed until
ing in year one class and always helping out with
one years old. Since his first birthday Catherine
the PTA as their treasurer and dedicated service
tells me that he hasn’t stopped eating! (I know!)
toward supporting the school as both her boys
David then joined St. Joseph’s in Clydach, sup-
attended here.
ported by intensive physiotherapy and speech
James is her eldest boy, born in 1992, and now
and language support in and out of school.
currently studying as a physiotherapist in Car-
Many of us who taught David remember it as
diff University, David her second child was born
a wonderful year. We learnt so much from him,
two years later also attending St. Joseph’s.
he was such a special and endearing little man,
David was born on the first of March 1994.
who loved his friends, teachers and Diane Mc
David, was diagnosed with a heart problem
Gillycuddy who ably supported him through-
and Downs Syndrome. The diagnosis for a
out mainstream school. We all learnt Makaton
heart defect was made just four days into his
the signing language, during David’s admission
life. Catherine remembers this time vividly
and we continue to use it as an aid to learning
when we talk, David went to Bristol Royal In-
throughout our school for all children. Many
firmary to have tests and heard the news that
of us were saddened greatly on David’s leaving,
her little boy needed surgery during his first
we missed his great love and character which he
year of life. David was allowed to go home
brought so readily and warmly to our school.
after one month at the beginning of April. At
David then moved on to Birchgrove Compre-
six months old David had a cardiac catheter
hensive School STF unit and enjoyed it greatly
procedure and then was placed on the list for
there. He is now studying at Swansea College
urgent surgery. He was treated at eight months
support studies for the next three years.
of age for two holes in the heart. He had to
David has recently celebrated his eighteenth
stay in hospital for one month and then was
birthday party and had a wonderful night. He had
allowed to return home, even though frail he
a packed party of family, friends, teachers. David
had built himself up a little.
was delighted so many of his old school teach-
David joined Stepping Stones in Killay, a
ers were there, we were all greeted warmly with
support and integrated play group for Parents,
“Miss” and a hug, just like the good old days.
Special Educational Needs children and their
David sung his favourite from “Lion King”, “The
siblings. Catherine remembers an array of ac-
circle of life”, danced, ate and partied with his
tivities on offer such as horse riding and swim-
friends. His Mum spoke about him and what a
ming, sensory rooms which both of her boys
treasure he is, we all completely agreed with her.
could share and enjoy.
Elizabeth Rowden
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
39
over the Rainbow Third year at St. Joseph’s we are running our annual Rainbows program The Rainbows programme offers support
stronger sense of self-esteem and begin to ac-
groups for our children who are dealing with
cept what has taken place in the family.
bereavement or living in a single parent or step
Through the support group we hope to assist
family situation or who are dealing with loss of
children in expressing and understanding his/
any kind. Rainbows is the largest international
her feelings, to feel acceptance for what has hap-
children’s charity dedicated solely to helping
pened and to feel a sense of belonging and love.
youth successfully navigate the very difficult
The groups are organised in small peer groups
grief process. Every day, children are touched by
with adult facilitators to guide them as they be-
emotional suffering caused by a death, divorce,
gin to share their experiences. The group is open
deployment of a family member, incarceration
for all children from Reception class onwards.
of a loved one, or any of a multitude of sig-
There is also a special ‘Celebrate Me’ day at the
nificant event traumas including natural or man
end of the school year. We have had wonderful
made disasters. And, while a few children are re-
‘Celebrate Me’ days last year and the year before
silient, we know that most do not bounce back
where parents and children and staff enjoyed a
without help.
fun day out together. We have been bowling, vis-
When something significant happens in a
ited the sea side, Liberty Stadium and sent our
family, the entire family is affected. Even though
memory lanterns into the air. After each ‘Cel-
death, divorce or other loss issues appear to be
ebrate Me’ day we go to Stella Maris convent
only grown-up problems, they can have a pro-
where children, parents and facilitators have a
found effect on the children who are touched
buffet and hold a poignant service where we all
by these experiences. If a parent dies or a di-
remember our losses and share our journeys.
vorce happens or a painful loss occurs, not only do the parents grieve, the children do also. Chil-
If you would like to discuss any questions you have about Rainbows please feel free to contact;
dren may find it extremely difficult to verbalise their feeling of grief because of their age and
Regional Director Sister Josephine Brady
inexperience. At St. Joseph’s we have some very
Stella Maris Convent 01792 462855
sensitive, caring and trained adults who have said
Mrs. Juliet Stack Rainbows Co-ordinator
“yes” to helping these children put their feelings
of St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School
into words, work through their grief, build a
Clydach 01792 842494
40
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
ed k l a t e w r e n h u t f e g d o T ha e w , s up o g r n i g l e fe in a r u o red a h s we
• Nursery class 2007 celebrating a 1960’s themed, Sunflower Day
00
Flower Power The annual Sunflower Day keeps on growing Each year for the last fifteen years St. Joseph’s
hold a Summer Concert or a day with a different
Catholic Primary has raised money for Singleton
theme each year. Last year we commemorated
Hospital’s Radiotherapy/Treatment Fund and
the seventieth year of the Swansea Blitz. Staff
Department.
and children were dressed in war time costumes
As you may be aware Singleton Hospital in
and the concert had a war time theme. We have
Swansea is the main hospital that treats people
had a sixties day and concert a Victorian con-
who have been diagnosed with Cancer throughout
cert, rugby day and a lot more.
the Mid and South West of Wales. Over the years
Dr. Colin Askill, a senior oncologist at Single-
we have raised at least £50,000 for the hospital.
ton Hospital has attended each special day. The
We hope to raise a large sum again this year.
day raises funds for Singleton in memory of
Each year the School holds an annual Sunflow-
my first husband Peter James who died in 1996
er Day where the children bring in sunflowers
of cancer. Peter was a very good friend to the
they have bought and grown at home and which
school, planning and making the nature area
are then judged to see who has grown the larg-
behind the Early Years department.
est Sunflower. On the special day we sometimes
Juliet Stack
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
43
Pack up your Troubles Plenty of smiles at the 2011 Sunflower concert as St. Joseph’s raises money for for Singleton Hospital’s Radiotherapy /Treatment Fund and Department.
• Above, original photographs taken by Jai Eastwood. Opposite, stills from Gower Video
The St Joseph’s School & Parish Journal 2012
kites and dippers RSPB Cwm Clydach proving there’s plenty of wildlife in the local area We are a group of young people aged 8-18
All of the following events are open to both Dip-
with a fascination for birds and wildlife. RSPB
pers and Kites, but there will be additional events
Wildlife Explorers (Dippers) for children aged
open for kites only such as surveys, conservation
8-12 years. RSPB Phoenix (Kites) for teenagers
work and special field trips. If your child wishes to
aged 13-18 years. We started in May 2011 and
join our group please contact us prior to the event
meet on the second Saturday of each month for
so registration can be organised. A parental con-
a programme of outdoor and indoor activities
sent form and contact telephone number must be
that develops an interest in birds, wildlife and
provided for all children attending our events.
the environment. We are based at Cwm Clydach RSPB Reserve for outdoor sessions and Craig
6th July 2012 – 8th July 2012
Cefn Parc Welfare Hall for indoor sessions. Ac-
Skomer Island Trip and Camp
tivities include nest box building, arts and crafts,
11th August 2012 Cwmclydach Reserve Car
games and talks from visiting naturalists. Out-
Park 10am-12 pm
door activities include pond dipping, conserva-
Pond dipping, wildflowers and butterflies
tion work, flora and fauna surveys as well as bird
8th September 2012 Cwmclydach Reserve Car
watching, nature walks and many other wildlife
Park 10am-12 pm
and nature topics.
Conservation work on the reserve
The groups are run by appropriately screened
13th October 2012 Craig Cefn Park Welfare
and vetted volunteers who are passionate about
Hall 5-7pm, Night-time creatures, Hibernation
inspiring future generations to take an interest
and BBQ
in the environment around them. All are risk as-
10th November 2012 WWT Llanelli 10am
sessed and attended by a qualified first aider.
Migration WWT 8th December 2012 Craig Cefn Parc Welfare
Prices: £20 per year for the 1st child
Hall 10am-12pm Christmas Party and Crafts
£10 per year for 2nd child
Contact Vicky Rees. Tel 01792 846443
£5 per year for 3rd child
www.kitesanddippers.org.uk
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The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
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• View of Clydach by Carl Ryan: www.blackplanetphotography.co.uk
Christmas in Clydach Dom. Ambrose Agius recalls a visit to Clydach in 1915 I arrived on Christmas Eve and got busy build-
dinner we went up upon the hills, where the air
ing a crib the first the congregation had seen. We
was pure cool and the views superb. Then tea and
had supper and a great number of confessions.
Christmas cake beside a roaring fire, listening to
Naturally the worst cases came to the stranger.
Handel’s Messiah. Happy memories accompa-
Midnight mass was thrilling; the palpable devo-
nied me back to Downside on Boxing Day. The
tion of the congregation shed a new light on the
train timetable was meagre and travelling tire-
feast. After a short rest we were all busy Christ-
some. But a Welshman kept us all amused going
mas morning. After enjoying a good Christmas
through the tunnel under the Severn.
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The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
• Christmas in Clydach 2011 The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
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The Easter Parade In your Easter bonnet, with all the frills upon it
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The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
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Dramatic Times and happy Days The Story of Peter Murphy and his time at the Convent School I was a pupil at the school in the mid 1950’s
week I think) she would read a chapter per les-
(1956-1960 approximately) and have good
son from a classic children’s novel. I particularly
memories of my time there.
remember “The Children of the New Forest”
I lived in Ystradgynlais, so school days involved daily bus journeys, initially by service buses and eventually by the Parish mini bus from Ystrad driven by Father Gregory.
the classic adventure group of the children during the English Civil War. I found these stories especially hearing them read aloud, very inspiring.
Our teachers were mainly the Sisters, you were
I mention this because my career was to be in
expected to work hard at the lessons, I remem-
young peoples theatre and children’s television
ber there was also music, movement and drama
where I went on to produce children’s novels for
in the mix at St. Ursula’s Hall.
television such as “The Coral Island”, Enid Bly-
Good friends included Vincent, Wayne and
ton’s “The famous five” and “The Snow Spider’s
Carlo. I still remember playing marbles in the
Trilogy by Jenny Nimmo. I also made a series
mud beneath St. Ursula’s hall.
with Ant and Dec, Rolf Harris “Cartoon Club”,
My first speaking part in a play was at the Con-
Bill Oddie, Aled Jones as well as being execu-
vent, I was a character called Bob and it involved
tive producer of “Biker Grove” for a number
a picnic.
of years.
My Grand father Jack Barry looked after the
I can trace back to my early years at the Con-
walled garden for the Sisters. I would sometimes
vent school being introduced to drama, music
get to see Grandpa in the garden at break or
and movement and those wonderful children’s
lunch time.
books. Thank you to the sisters and staff at the
One strong memory is of the lessons with Sister Fintan. In the last lesson of the day (once a
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Convent. Happy days. Peter Murphy
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
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Passion Players A portrait of the Passion Play and it’s resurrection by Parishioners Both Ystradgynlais and Clydach Churches have
originally started back in 1982-1983. At that
a long history of the Passion Play. The play
time a new Parish Priest Father Danny Mullins
was originally written by Mr. Brian Griffiths of
had arrived at the “Sacred Heart Church” in
Ystradgynlais Church and he started the play
Ystradgynlais, and Colleen’s brother John Car-
with Parishioners from the area. The play was
roll was a full and active member of the Parish.
then taken up by members of Clydach parish
Father Danny wanted some ideas for an event
and has grown up into a play which attracts
with which the whole Parish could be involved
participants from all surrounding parishes also.
in during Lent. As John and I had some previ-
Mr. Brian Griffiths who wrote the play discusses it in the following way… The “Passion Play” that is currently performed
56
ous experience in entertainment, John asked me to write something which could be performed in the church. At that time, the idea
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
was to do something of a choral or musical na-
use the script. I was more than pleased to see it
ture as we had previously produced something
performed again so I readily agreed and both he
similar in the church in the past .
and the parishioners of St. Benedict’s Clydach
I had previously written a small stage play for Gurnos Youth Club in Ysradgynlais which John
have continued to produce and perform it on an annual basis.
had produced previously, so instead of writing
Because it was envisaged that the play would
another musical production. I suggested we do
always be written for performing in various
a short play of a religious nature which could
churches the scenery and sets had to be con-
be produced and performed by the Parishio-
strained to accommodate the varied layout of
ners within the church and so the “Passion
the different churches where it would be per-
Play” was born.
formed and the limitations imposed by indi-
It was first performed in the Gurnos Youth
vidual church design. To this end consideration
Club, and then the Sacred Heart Church and the
has also been given to the difficulty of trans-
St. Cynog’s church hall. All the props, and the
porting complicated sets and materials. When
costumes, were made by local parishioners and
writing the play it had to be done in such a way
continue to be done so today.
that the individual scenes did not rely on such
For various reasons, the members of the
complicated sets and instead allow the natural
church were unable to continue with the pro-
church architecture to provide the mood and
duction and it ceased to be performed for a cou-
sacred nature of most of the scenes. To this
ple of years. However, I still retained the original
end the play succeeds admirably.
script and was pleased when some years later
Back in 1982 I never thought that this small
Peter Daley came to me and asked if he could
production would still be attracting audiences
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57
some thirty years later. This is due in no small
who were uneducated by our normal standards,
part to the dedication of Mr. Peter Daley and
unable to read and write and never possessed a
the Parishioners of St. Benedict’s, Clydach, to-
Bible or spiritual book in their lives! For them
gether with Parishioners from other churches
this use of the theatre brought the words and
including Gorseinon, Pontardulais, Swansea and
scripture alive for them. This little passion play is
elsewhere. It is also made possible by the small
echoing history and has a very long pedigree! It
army of dedicated backstage helpers who make
has been a pleasure and honour to be part of it.
it all possible.
Brian Griffiths
However, there is also another element which is the prime reason why this play succeeds and
The following words are those of Father Philip Moore,
that is the “spiritual” message and the truth that
Parish Priest at Birkenhead Church.
it proclaims. There have been many occasions
“Mel Gibson eat your heart out, this was the
when the audience have said “the play” has
real thing! The fact that all the proceeds go to
brought the gospel message alive for them and
help the St.Vincent de Paul society to help the
the events and circumstances of Christ’s Passion
underprivileged and disadvantaged only makes
and death have been given a reality no amount
the whole thing more meaningful… I felt in-
of spiritual reading has been able to convey. It
tense sadness as Jesus carried his cross down
should be borne in mind that this production
the aisle being whipped and kicked by soldiers.
is not a new idea. People were producing these
Simon of Cyrene and Veronica helped him, but
small theatrical productions in medieval times,
I did nothing, I just watched. During the ham-
performing them on the back of horse drawn
mer blows as he was nailed to the cross, I kept
wagons in various towns, and villages to people
my eyes shut, and when I opened them he was
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The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
hanging on the cross, lit only by the flares of sol-
our busy times. On a personal note, having seen
diers. The guards laugh and play dice. Mary and
the play for many years, it always strikes me as a
John kneel at the foot of the cross. Jesus calls
central part in our parishes celebration of Holy
on his Father and forgives his killers, then dies.
week and it makes this time very powerful and
Total darkness, the sound of wind and claps of
evocative. It is a treat for the senses, the music
thunder with Jesus visible by flashes of lighten-
is haunting, the visuals and reenactments are su-
ing, then total darkness. As the music reaches a
perb. It is both fresh and current, and there has
deafening crescendo a light shines on the empty
been a recent surge of new players with many of
cross with the shroud draped across it.”
my peers, friends and fellow parishioners emerg-
Father Philip Moore
ing. We have a new “Jesus” to watch! after the retirement of the old one. Both have brought so
As a Parishioner of St. Benedict’s from a few
much to the role and its development, as have
weeks old, I have grown up alongside my peers
the other cast members who give a vivid insight
with the Passion play. It is wonderful to see it
into life at Jesus’ time.
still inspire after many years of performances.
This year as a school community the parish
This story needs to be told and heard, it does
performance proceeds at St. Benedict’s were
bring alive one’s faith and the special meaning
donated to Dr. Askill’s annual “Sunflower ap-
that Easter holds for all Catholics. I always feel
peal”, three hundred pounds were given to
extremely humbled in watching the play and the
a worthy cause by the “Passion players” a
dedication of those who firstly grow beards, give
great kindness. Thank you all. Long may our
so much of their time to travel with the play and
passion for the play continue.
have the courage to perform it so intensively in
Elizabeth Rowden
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• Arwel Thomas (above) and Joe Allen (right) who put the pupils through their paces on training day
Keep on running Arwel Thomas takes on a Marathon challenge in support of Cystic Fibrosis
Prior to his marathon effort in aid of Cystic
I felt really good during the first half of the
Fibrosis Arwell came into St Joseph’s for a training
run, being carried along with all the excitement of
afternoon. In the Spring sunshine he put the pupils
the cheering crowd. There were people dressed
through their paces while proud parents watched
in all sorts of crazy costumes, ranging from
on enjoying the refreshments served up by the
Elvis Presley to Sponge Bob Squarepants ! Around
school. Many thanks to Joe Allen from Swansea
the fifteen or sixteen mile point I started to really
City for making it a special day for all the children
struggle. My feet were burning and my legs were
big and small. He put in his own heroic effort sign-
like jelly. At this stage I realised that I should have
ing autographs for every pupil in the school.
done a lot more training. The only thing that kept me going was thinking of the effort that every-
Arwel’s Marathon Day Diary Woke at 6.30 am to glorious sunshine – couldn’t believe it! For my breakfast I tried
body had made with the fundraising. The total amount raised was £7,500 which is absolutely amazing!
to eat lots of high energy foods to help me
I would personally like to thank everyone
through the twenty six mile run. I then had
at the school for all the support that you gave
to catch the London underground with all the
me, I could never have done it without you.
other 36,000 marathon runners, making my
Many Thanks
way nervously to the starting line.
Arwel
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having a field day The School Fête held anually on the first Saturday in July in Coed Gwilym Park
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The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
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Trail Blazers St. Joseph’s boys represent Glamorgan in cross country challange We had trials in school organised by Mr Reed. Both Year 5 and 6 took part. I qualified as a member of our school cross country team and I was very excited about competing.
Joseph and I ran alongside each other, supporting and pushing ourselves forward. We did it! I came 7th and Joseph came 8th. We had qualified for The Glamorgan Team!
The first leg of the competition was held at
I was really happy with my achievement and
Coedgwilym Park alongside our school. Nine
my mother and sisters who came to support me
competed from our school team. I was very
were very proud. The following week, I trav-
pleased with my effort in my first cross country
elled to Carmarthen with Mr Reed, Joseph and
race, I came 4th out of thirty five boys and was
the rest of the team to race against The Dyfed
through to the second leg.
Team of runners. There were thirteen boys in
The 2nd leg of the cross country race at Co-
each team and it was a difficult and long course.
edgwilym Park seen me improve on my position
It was very hilly in parts. Joseph and I ran close
and I came 2nd out of almost forty boys. My
together again and we did well trying to help our
team – mate Joseph Johns came 3rd and we both
team to victory.
had now qualified to the County Final!
TEAM GLAMORGAN WON!!! Brilliant!
The county final was held at Ashleigh Rd.
We had beaten Dyfed and we received our
playing fields and Joseph and I were compet-
winning gold medals. We had a team photo
ing against all of the fastest runners in Swansea
and Mr Reed and all of our coaches were de-
& Neath. We also were trying to qualify for the
lighted with us.
County team which meant we had to finish in
As a treat we had a Macdonald’s meal on the
the top twelve. So the pressure was on me to do
way home – it was a fantastic experience.
my best!
William Rickard – Year 5
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The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
• Joseph Johns (left) and William Rickard (second from left) who raced to victory with the Glamorgan cross country team The Clydach & Ystradgynlais Parish Journal 2012
Gaelic Games The Gaelic Athletic Association puting down roots in Clydach The St Joseph’s Annual Sports Day & Fête kindly
nervous affair with both teams struggling to find
hosted a Gaelic Football long kick competition
their rhythm in the first half. The second half was
on Saturday July 2nd 2011. On a hot summers
a different story with St. Joseph’s moving the ball
afternoon in Coed Gwilym Park along with the
quickly, with some expert score taking and strong
bottle stalls and lucky dips, pupils and parents
defending they emerged on top in a tough first
tested their long kick abilities. Due to the inter-
game. We were up and running.
est and skills on display plans were put in place
Next was Our Lady of the Rosary, Bristol.
to provide coaching sessions for Year 5 & 6 boys
Wales v England in a game of Gaelic foot-
and girls.
ball, it’s a mad world. Needless to say the team
Phil O Connor the GAA Development Officer
were well motivated. It proved to be another
for Wales started coaching sessions on a cold Feb-
close game with both teams evenly matched.
ruary day in the Park. The boys and girls under
We edged ahead in the second half but a stiff
Phil’s expert guidance and their own application
breeze began to pick up and got behind a great
began to master the skills of Gaelic Football. The
effort from Our Lady of the Rosary, which saw
catch and kick, handpass the solo run, scoring
them draw the game. Still not too bad, won
over the bar a point and under the bar a goal (3
one, drawn one with the team really beginning
points). Amazed by the speed and freedom of the
to motor.
game they excelled and surpassed all expectations.
After a quick lunch, refuelled and back into ac-
After just six weeks of training it was decided that
tion in what would be the match of the day. We
the pupils were ready to represent Swansea at a
faced St Cadoc’s, Cardiff, and played with the
tournament in Cardiff.
wind in the first half but it looked ominous as
Early on Friday morning, March the 9th, a small convoy of cars made their way from Clydach up
scores were level at halftime. We all realised we were up against some serious opposition.
the M4 to the Welsh Institute for Sport. In the
Joseph Johns was given the job of tracking
shadow of the Millennium Stadium, before our
their star player and his excellent work for the
first game the team spoke about the privilege of
team began to turn the tide. The strong wind
representing friends, family the School and the
now blowing meant short passing and teamwork
Swansea Valley.
were needed and with Joe, Dafydd and Nathan
The first game, against Pant PS Merthyr was a
66
working together we began to win the midfield
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
• The St Joseph’s Gaelic football team that represented Swansea in a tournament at the Welsh Institute for Sport battle. This provided much needed possession to
Of course we were all disappointed but with
Noah and William the ‘terrible twins’ up front.
another two games to go there was no time to
Their pace and ability to carry the ball created
dwell. The true measure of a team is how they
havoc in the opposition defence and room for
react to defeat and in the next two games the boys
Josh and Ben to take some great scores. Amy,
and girls of St. Joseph’s, Clydach showed their
Sophia and Rosie were dealing with everything
worth. Two big wins against teams from Car-
the opposition and the elements could throw at
diff and Barry provided a great finish to the day.
them in defence of the St. Joseph’s goal, ably
Many thanks to the Phil O Connor, the Gaelic
manned by Ben Mac. With a minute to go and
Athletic Association for organising the coaching
St. Joesph’s two points ahead all eyes were on
sessions and the tournament. Also many thanks
this enthralling encounter and a great victory
the staff and parents who provided transport and
was on the cards.
great support for the team.
Then it came, a long ball caught by the wind
Well done to all the boys and girls that con-
sailed over our defence into the grateful arms of
tinue to take part in the coaching sessions
their star player and he lashed it to the back of
and a school tournament is planned for this
the net. A one point loss with the last kick of
years School Fête. We’re only getting started.
the game.
Páraic Maddock
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
67
time bends Clydach Historical Society saving the past for the future
The Clydach Historical Society was founded by a group of enthusiasts in April, 1983 and now has a following of about 500 members. The Society’s Constitution states that ‘It is an aim of the Society to provide, encourage and generate critical thought about local history’ and this must have been fulfilled many times over as we are now in our 25th year. The Society is one of the largest in Wales. The Society prides itself on the quality of its publications. The Society is eager to receive photographs and items such as old bills, receipts and adverts to reproduce in the Guides. Appropriate information such as date taken,
invited speaker. The topics chosen are of a local
where taken and names must accompany
or wider ranging interest and the opportunity is
photographs.
given to ask questions at the end. The evening
The Society meets in Clydach Community Centre in Vardre Road on the third Friday of
closes with refreshments which are provided free of charge.
each month from September to March, with
The Annual General Meeting is held on the
the exception of December when the meeting
third Friday in April when the Committee pres-
is held on the second Friday. The doors open at
ents its reports for the previous year and elects
6.30pm and a public talk - usually illustrated - is
Officers for the following year which commenc-
presented to those in attendance at 7pm by an
es in September.
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The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
• Clydach High Street, HR Jones shop on left © Clydach Historical Society The first Saturday in June sees members em-
In addition to the Newsletters, the Society
bark on the Annual Day Excursion which takes
has produced a number of Photographic Sou-
in places of historical interest in the UK.
venirs of Old Clydach and District.
Roughly four times a year, the Society produces a Newsletter which contains articles of
www.clydachhistoricalsociety.co.uk
mainly local interest which have been donated by members and non members. The Newsletter is provided to all members free of charge except where it is posted when an additional charge is made.
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
69
Memory lane Looking back fondly and remembering days full of Fetes, fun and a pottery clay covered nun
As a child attending St. Joseph’s Primary School
the 33 children and Sister herself! I can still re-
it was a magical place. I never wanted to leave
member Mother Brendan coming in to the room
and when I came back to teach here it was won-
and the look on her face. But I clearly remem-
derful. I have spent 20 happy years in the place
ber taking home that precious object and look-
I love. When I came to school at the age of 3
ing at it so proudly and thinking I never would
along with my twin sister Elizabeth it seemed
be any happier than up to my elbows in clay.
to be full of days running around the fields of
Juliet Stack
the convent, visiting the secret garden, cleaning the convent staircase (which was such a treat
For the first few years of my teaching career at
believe it or not!), helping out in the dungeons
St. Joseph’s , the Convent with the sisters was
with school dinners, having Mass in the con-
still in Clydach. It was lovely for the children
vent chapel resting on the beautiful kneelers and
that we could still use the gardens to sit and
watching the sun stream through the stained
read stories. The children loved the space and
glass windows making patterns dance across the
the beautiful flowers and it was such a peaceful
vestments of the priest. There was such an at-
place for them to hear a story.
mosphere and we were so very happy.
Although, I don’t remember as I was quite
I remember vividly the day I though I might
young, my Parents often talked about com-
be quite good at art. We were in J3 in the stables
ing to the Summer Fayre (Fête) at St. Joseph’s
being taught by Sister Winifred who in those less
Convent, Clydach. For many years a bus was
than PC days had decided we would all make an
organised from our Parish in Port Talbot ,and
ash tray out of clay for our parents! Sister had let
it was a very popular day. I do remember a small
the whole class greedily take the new clay from
manual sewing machine that my Dad and I
the bag and in our enthusiasm I remember clay
made doll’s clothes on, that came from one of
being everywhere! Walls, tables, chairs and over
the fetes.Mary Mort
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The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
The St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
Dydd GWyl Dewi The many ways we celebrate St David’s Day Every year at St. Joseph’s to celebrate St. David’s
We have also had themes based on places
Day we have a Welsh Week/ Wythnos Cymreig
which we visited and then learned about eg.
where for that week all our lessons are linked to
Pembroke Castle and St. Fagan’s.
a particular Welsh theme. This helps us to learn about and celebrate being Welsh.
This year we worked on the theme of 100 years of Swansea City Football Club and the children
On St. David’s Day we wear our national cos-
were exceedingly motivated and excited by this!
tumes and celebrate mass in the morning then in
They brought in huge models of the Liberty
the afternoon we have a whole-school Eistedd-
Stadium, accounts of trips to Wembley and tales
fod in the Hall. During the Eisteddfod each class
of Cyril the Swan. The Eisteddfod consisted of
performs a Welsh song, poem or play linked to
all classes form Nursery up singing songs about
our Welsh Week theme. For our February half-
the Swans in English and Welsh. We had a great
term homework the children are asked to write
day and we dressed in black and white or Swans
or draw or do a mini-project or design & make
kits and so the hall ended up looking and sound-
items related to the chosen Welsh theme and
ing like the Liberty! This year we managed to
certificates are given out during to the winners
join Family Fast Day with our Welsh theme as
during the Eisteddfod.
the Cafod theme for 2012 was sport therefore
We try to vary the themes so that the children
we not only had fun and felt very proud of being
have an experience of all things Welsh – we try
Welsh but we also raised £400 (match funded by
to move away from just doing the stereotypical
the government) for Cafod. Dydd Gwyl Dewi
symbols eg. leeks & daffodils!
Sant Hapus!!!
Over the years we have learned about ‘Welsh
Mary Mort
Music – Old & New’, ‘Famous Welsh People’, ‘Welsh Authors’ and ‘Welsh Stories’. We have
Swansea oh Swansea oh city said I,
had a Welsh Fashion Show or ‘Catwalk Cymreig’
standing on the North Bank ‘till the day I die,
where the children had to design and make a
take me to the Vetch Field way down by the sea,
piece of clothing (T-shirt, scarf, bag etc.) with
and I will follow Swansea,
a Welsh theme and we had a makeshift catwalk
SWANSEA CITY
in the hall.
Roger Evans
72
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
Good Neighbours The old links forged between communities recently renewed
• Fr Michael Morley on the school run with the children from Ystradgynlais • Opposite : Laying of the church foundation stone 1938 The Parish of the Sacred Heart Ystradgynlais
offering a corrugated zinc building to a needy
has had close links with St. Benedict’s Cly-
Parish and Ystradgynlais was successful in ob-
dach and the Ursuline Convent Clydach for
taining it. It was the first Catholic Church in
over a hundred years. The priest who served
Ystradgynlais.
Ystradgynlais from 1908 until 1923 was Fr. An-
Between 1924 and 1930 Fr. Cyprian Alston
thony Cox, a monk from Downside. He had
and Fr. P. F. Fitzgerald, both Parish Priests of
the church in Clydach built and served Mor-
St. Benedict’s Clydach also served Ystradgyn-
riston as well as Ystradgynlais. He used to ar-
lais Parish. During this time the Ursuline Sisters
rive to say Mass on his motorcycle and sidecar.
from Clydach used to travel to Ysradgynlais to
Between 1908 and 1911 Mass was said on al-
provide religious instruction for the children in
ternate Sundays in the homes of the McCarthy
a Sunday School.
families. In 1911 a Convent in Liverpool was
74
Between 1956 and 1971 Fr. Gregory Brightling,
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
a Salvatorian, was Parish Priest of the Sacred
School in 1969 it was a “private” school but
Heart Parish Ystradgynlais. He was instrumen-
not in the normal sense. People gave what they
tal in organizing fundraising events to purchase
could and if they couldn’t give they were never
a mini-bus. At this time Fr. Michael Morley was
turned away. Rev. Mother Regina wanted the
also in Ystradgynlais and he took on the task
school to be taken over by the local authority
of driving a school- run to St. Joseph’s Primary
and worked very hard to bring this to fruition.
School Clydach He picked up the children from
She asked me to start a Nursery as she wanted
their homes in the morning and returned them
to offer an early years class to encourage all
to their families each evening. The Ystradgyn-
Catholic children to come to the school. If
lais parents were very keen for their children to
they could afford it each family paid ten shil-
have a Catholic education and were very grate-
lings (50p) a week for five full days of Nursery.
ful to Fr. Michael.
I received £12 a week.
Fr. Michael taught Fr. Gregory to drive and
The Rev. Mother allowed me to bring my
he took over the school-run. I started work as a
nine month old son with me plus pram, play-
teacher in St. Joseph’s Convent School in April
pen, highchair etc. He was looked after by the
1969 and I have vivid memories of Fr. Gregory
nuns in the sitting room, which I had known as
driving up the school drive in a grey mini-bus full of school children. He would go up to the Convent kitchen where he would have breakfast and a chat. He was a wonderful, friendly man and would stop the bus for the children to buy sweets on the way home. In the words of Canon Clyde Johnson “ He really was a mother and father to the congregation and was very greatly loved. He formed a very strong link between Ystradgynlais and St Joseph’s School and many children from the Parish were educated in Clydach by the Ursuline Sisters. When I started work in St. Joseph’s Convent
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
75
• Fr Michael Morley and children on the school bus my old Junior 4 Classroom during my time as a
breaks and lunchtimes with him. I was also al-
pupil. Sr. Mary Magdalen, who was in her nine-
lowed to bring my second son to school with
ties, but totally alert, was the main babysitter. Sr
me when he was 3 months old in 1971. By this
Mary Edward was often seen wheeling him in
time the school had been inspected and taken
his pram around the grounds and I spent my
over by the local authority and I was now the Reception Class teacher. I was very grateful to the Sisters and spent 30 happy years at the school. The link with Ystradgynlais continued as a minibus still brought the children down to what was now St. Joseph’s Primary School. This transport was provided by Powys Education Authority. In 1979 my family moved to Ystradgynlais and my 3 children travelled to school on this minibus along with many others. This transport was provided for many years but eventually was
76
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
• The Parishioners of Sacred Heart Ystradgynlais celebrating together stopped which meant that most children could
in Sept. 2012. The mission started in Wales by
not attend. The link was almost broken.
the Ursuline Sisters continues on due to their
In 2010 Fr. Teyrnon Williams of Clydach
hard work and prayers and we thank them
Parish took over as Parish Priest in the Sacred
for it .
Heart Parish Ystradgynlais. It had taken 80
Elizabeth Delaney
years but the wheel had turned full circle and the link was forged again. By now Ystradgynlais was a multi-cultural Parish. The parents of our Keralan community wanted their children educated in a Catholic School and with the help of Fr. Teyrnon and Mr Way, the Headmaster, the bond has been strengthened once again between St. Joseph’s School Clydach and the children of the Sacred Heart Parish. Long may it continue. Five children have been attending the school and more will be joining them
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
77
Celebrating community How the Filipino community came to celebrate Santa Cruzan Festival in Clydach
I started at Swansea University in 1993 and re-
and received Certificates of Appreciation from
mained in the area following graduation. In
the Philippine Government.
about 1998 I was persuaded to join the cast of
In May 2011 St Benedict’s hosted the first
the Passion Play as a Roman Soldier, and then
Santa Cruzan (Holy Cross) Festival to be held
moved to Clydach in 2001, just a few weeks be-
in Menevia. The Festival is a major event in the
fore Fr Teyrnon. All these years later I’m still
Philippines and the event in Clydach was attend-
putting on his armour and taking part in this
ed by Filipinos from throughout South Wales,
powerful production.
as well as local parishioners from both St Bene-
In September 2004 Mabel and I married hav-
dict’s and Sacred Heart. In his sermon at Mass
ing met though Couples for Christ (CFC), of
that afternoon Fr Teyrnon spoke about Clydach
which Mabel had been a member in Yemen be-
being known in the past for the Annual Corpus
fore coming to the UK. CFC was formed in the
Christi Procession and expressed a hope that the
Philippines 30 years ago, and has been in the UK
Santa Cruzan will become even more popular in
for 15 years.
the years to come, with people from many par-
In 2005 we facilitated the introduction of CFC
ishes and communities taking part.
to Menevia, initially in Morriston. As CFC we
Since 2009 Therese Maria has been attending
hold most meetings in our homes, but also hold
St Joseph’s school, and is now in the reception
larger meetings for which we use St Benedict’s
class. Isabel recently started attending the nursery.
Church. The Morriston Filipino Community, of
Both girls thoroughly enjoy attending the school
which we also members, has its monthly Filipino
and we look forward to at least another nine years
Mass at the Parish.
involvement as a family at St. Joseph’s.
In September 2009 the Philippines was hit by
Though we are recent arrivals to the parish and
two disastrous typhoons in quick succession.
the school we know that we are now very much
This prompted a Disaster Appeal, initiated lo-
a part of the Catholic Community of Clydach,
cally by CFC, to which both St Benedict’s Parish
and will remain so for many more years.
and St Joseph’s School responded magnificently,
Sean Haran
78
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
79
The Monday Philosophy Club “Philosophy is the science which considers truth” Aristotle subject of philosophy with a brief history of the greatest figures providing a contextual framework. We looked at the conceptual nature of philosophical questions and through a selection of warm up games played every week the children have developed their skills of thinking including keeping an open mind, questioning assumptions, defining concepts, logical reasoning; listening by developing stillness, being in the here and now, and active body language and speaking clearly and relevantly, Every Monday for the last two years a group of
referring back to previous points and providing
fifteen children have come together to explore
coherent reasons for their argument.
questions of personal concern such as friend-
Gradually a community of respect, coopera-
ship, fairness, and happiness, and more general
tion and enquiry has developed, and each week
philosophical issues such as truth, knowledge,
the children have listened to a range of stories
reality, beauty and Who am I?, with the aim
from countries and cultures intended to stimu-
of understanding themselves and the world
late thought on a philosophical theme. On a
around them.
couple of occasions we have even joined the
Initially I introduced the children to the
80
wider community, by listening to current Radio
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
others, thereby increasing their self esteem and intellectual confidence. I have thoroughly enjoyed running the club and am constantly surprised at the level of debate, not to mention frequently wrongfooted by the questions that the children have chosen to focus on. I find it a constant source of inspiration and hope the next group of children to start get as much enjoyment as the previous and current ones have. Claire Walsh
• Left, The philosophy club members and a portrait Betrand Russell 4 philosophy debates as the stimulus for our enquiry. We then take time to quietly reflect on the initial thoughts that have been stimulated by what we have heard. In small groups the children formulate any questions which the stories have raised for them, and as a group one of these questions is chosen for debate. During the sub-
The Craig WI meet at the Welfare Hall on
sequent discussion the children are encouraged
the last Monday of every month. A happy
to think about what they are saying, to take re-
easy going group of about twenty ladies
sponsibility for their comments. We finish with
at the moment but we hope to grow our
an opportunity for final thoughts which gives
membership in 2012.
every child the opportunity to summarise their
Our meetings consist of talks and demon-
thoughts on the session.
strations, everything from head massage
These Philosophical enquiries initiate chil-
to clay modelling and jewellery making.
dren into public discussion about meanings
We welcome everyone to join our social
and values to encourage them to think about
group to share existing skills and learn
what it means to be reasonable and to make
new ones. The first two visits are free.
moral judgements. They are encouraged to find
For 2012 programme of activities call:
their own path to meaning, via discussion with
Secretary Claire Walsh 01792 845885
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
81
A Clydach Ghost story The story of a strange encounter of a mysterious nun and her companion
Do we believe in ghosts? Some of us perhaps,
house. He immediately braked to avoid hit-
but for others it is probably a figment of the
ting the animal and came to a halt with a tre-
imagination until some phenomenon or strange
mendous skid, hitting the ground which jarred
unexplained experience makes those that don’t,
every bone in his body.
sit up and take notice!
Councillor Frank Hobbs stated.....“I suddenly
The story of Ex-Councillor Fred Hobbs who
realised the bicycle had actually run through the
vividly recalls the strange encounter of a myste-
dog and I felt no impact as one would expect in
rious nun and her companion, a black and white
a collision of this sort”.
collier dog, on a murky November evening .... this is why Fred believes in ghosts.
“It was a spine chilling experience when I took stock of the situation especially when I looked
It happened shortly after he left school at the
around as I pulled myself off the road I saw a
age of fifteen when he got a job as a delivery
nun accompanied by the dog walking casually
boy for Ted Cruise, Butcher, in High Street. His
down Ynyspenllwch road”.
delivery route every Friday evening was to Glais
“I was white with fright and considerably
returning to the industrial hamlet of Ynyspen-
shaken which Mrs. Hearne noticed when I
llwch before calling on Mrs.Hearne who lived
arrived on her doorstop. After looking me up
on the corner of the old Ynyspenllwch road
and down to see that there were no bones bro-
adjacent to the now demolished lodge at the en-
ken and ordering me to tuck into the custom-
trance to Ynyspenllwch house.
ary bowl of soup which she always kept for me,
Every Friday Fred would collect the meat which had been packed up at the shop for
Mrs.Hearne made a cryptic remark which I have never forgotten”
customers which had been ordered earlier in the
“Well Fred, you saw it, at least you can
week until one murky November evening and
always say that you are one of the few to have
that strange frightening encounter as he was
seen the mysterious nun and her companion”
dashing for Glais. Immediately
after
passing
the
cottage
Grateful thanks to Mr.Peter Daley of Clydach
where distinguished historian Dr. Gwynne
Historical Society for allowing us to reproduce
resided, Fred noticed a black collie dog darting
this article.
across the road from the lodge to Mrs. Hearn’s
Picture by Clydach Mystery Inc.
82
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
full on welsh Former pupil now trainee chef Shane Davies gives us some food for thought
Linguine alle Vongole
Ingredients
This dish really isn’t as complicated as the name
2 tablespoons olive oil
suggests. I’ve used Penclawdd cockles, harvest
1 small onion, finely chopped
ed in the Burry estuary since Roman times to
400g tin of chopped tomatoes
give a bit of a local feel this Italian dish.
2 tablespoons tomato puree (or sundried tomatoes,
Laverbread or welsh mussels can be used as
pureed)
alternatives in this seafood feast.
120ml dry white wine
A great dish for special occasions or if
280g ready cooked Penclawdd cockles (or 280g jar
you’re looking to show off your skills
clams in natural juice, with juice reserved)
to guests.
2 garlic cloves, crushed
Serves 4
350g dried linguine
84
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
Method
Lamb koftas with mint yogurt
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan. Add
This is something the kids can join in with once
the onions and garlic, stirring frequently and
all the ingredients have been weighed out. Just
cook until soft.
be sure to wash hands before and after touching
2. Add the tin tomatoes, tomato puree, white
raw meat. It is also advisable to soak the wooden
wine, and about 40/50ml water (or the juice
skewers for half an hour at least prior to
from the clam jar if using clams). Season with
cooking. Serves 4 (2-3 koftas each)
black pepper to taste, bring to the boil, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low, cover the
Ingredients
pan with a lid, leaving a gap to allow excess
5-10 minutes preparation
steam out. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring
10-15 minutes cooking time
occasionally.
450g lean welsh lamb minced
3. While the sauce is cooking, cook the pasta
1 small onion finely chopped or pureed
in boiling salted water for 10-12 minutes until
2 garlic cloves crushed or finely chopped
al-dente, or according to packet instructions.
½ a teaspoon ground cinnamon
Drain in a colander.
1 teaspoon ground cumin
4. Add your cockles (or clams) to the sauce
1 teaspoon ground coriander
and simmer for another minute or two until
Salt and pepper to taste
warmed through. 5 Add the pasta to the sauce and toss to combine. Serve immediately. Shane’s suggestion Try making fresh pasta. It is time consuming and requires patience, but it is well worth it. It is also worth mentioning that you’ll need a pasta machine. You can find pasta recipes online and in most Italian cook books.
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
85
• Gower salt marshes by Diane Trenoweth 1 tablespoon mint freshly chopped
every so often. Alternatively cook in your pre-
3 tablespoons low fat yogurt
heated oven for 10 minutes. 5. For the mint yogurt, simply add the
Method
chopped mint to the yogurt and mix together.
1. Pre-heat a grill to its highest setting or an
Alternatively cook in your pre-heated oven for
oven to 180°. In a bowl, mix the lamb, garlic
10 minutes.
and onion.
5. For the mint yogurt, simply add the chopped
2. Add the cinnamon, cumin and coriander and
mint to the yogurt and mix together.
mix together into a dough like form. 3. Roll into 8-12 sausage like shapes and place
Shane’s suggestion
on the skewers.
Serve the Koftas with mint yogurt,
4. Place under the grill for 10 minutes, turning
Lemon couscous and roast vegetables.
86
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
Vegetable Tarte Tatin
drain on kitchen paper.
A great vegetarian starter on its own or as a
3. Heat the remaining oil in the same pan as
main course served with buttered new pota-
before and add the red and yellow pepper, red
toes and French beans. An exciting, colourful
onion and garlic and cook until softened. Stir in
and different way of getting people to eat
the white wine and some of the chopped basil
their vegetables. Serves 4
and olives. Season with black pepper. 4. In a 30cm/12inch shallow oven-proof dish,
Ingredients
arrange the cooked aubergine slices in a single
350g puff pastry, thawed if frozen
layer. Arrange the rest of the vegetables on top
30ml olive oil, 1 garlic clove, crushed
of the aubergine.
1 aubergine, sliced lengthways ,½ a red pepper, sliced
5. Roll out the puff pastry to a circle that is
½ a yellow pepper, sliced
slightly larger than the dish’ diameter. Place on
1 red onion, chopped finely
top the vegetables in the dish, tucking in the
40g stone-less black olives, chopped
edges of the pastry into the dish.
120ml white wine, a handful of chopped basil
6. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown.
Method 1. Pre-heat the oven to 180°.
Shane’s suggestion
2. Heat half the olive oil and fry the
Use other vegatables the possibilities are endless.
aubergine slices for 4 minutes (2 minutes
Local and seasonal produce are always recom-
on each side) until golden. Lift out and
mended when possible to source
This Autumn term St Joseph’s school will start a weekly vegetable box scheme. With 6 types of locally grown organic seasonal veg including spuds every week. For further information contact. Elizabeth Rowden
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012
87
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