Dr Saskia Barnden

Dr Barnden was ordained at St Mary's Priory Church, Monmouth, by Dr Rowan Williams, then Bishop of Wales prior to his election as Archbishop of Canterbury.

In addition to her regular teaching, in both main school and Prep. Dept., she is a key player in the pastoral support team.

Ordination, 22nd September 2001

This prayer fits so well with the spirit of our school. We'd like to share it with you.

Flame-dancing Spirit, Come Sweep us off Our feet and Dance us through our days. Surprise us with Your rhythms; dare us to try new steps, explore new patterns and new partnerships; Release us from old routines to swing in abandoned joy and fearful adventure. And in the intervals, rest us in Your Still Centre. Amen.

Ann Lewin St Hilda Community

Ty Mawr Convent, Lydart

A peaceful location for our confirmation candidates’ retreat.  Located in woodland high above the Wye Valley, just six miles from School.

The Journey

Here is another poem that has inspired us in one of our daily assemblies.

The Journey, by Mary Oliver.

One day you finally knew what you had to do, and began, though the voices around you kept shouting their bad advice -

. . . . .

But little by little, as you left their voices behind, the stars began to burn through the sheets of clouds, and there was a new voice which you slowly recognised as your own, that kept you company as you strode deeper and deeper into the world, determined to do the only thing you could do - determined to save the only life you could save.

For the full text of this poem you will need to find a copy of 'Wild Geese" by Mary Oliver.  Published by BloodAxe Books in 2004.  We hope you like it as much as we do.