Tel: 01388 602 608 Email: admin@stjosephscoundon.bhcet.org.uk
Durham University Visit to St Joseph's Coundon
13 March 2026

Durham University Inspires Future Scholars at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School

Pupils at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School were given a glimpse into their future aspirations this week as representatives from Durham University spent the afternoon working with Year 5 and Year 6. The visiting team introduced pupils to the world of higher education, explaining what a university is, the variety of subjects that can be studied, and the different pathways young people can take to reach their dream careers. Through engaging discussions and activities, the session aimed to broaden pupils’ horizons and encourage them to start thinking about their long-term goals.

Image of Year 3 & 4 Explore Sound, Hearing and Inclusion with Teacher of the Deaf Workshop
6 March 2026

Year 3 & 4 Explore Sound, Hearing and Inclusion with Teacher of the Deaf Workshop

Year 3 and Year 4 pupils at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Coundon enjoyed an inspiring and educational workshop this week as part of their Science topic, Sound and the Ear. Lauren, our Teacher of the Deaf, visited the school to deliver a hands-on session that deepened the children’s understanding of how hearing works—and how hearing loss can affect everyday life.

St Joseph's Coundon at Hamsterley Forest
24 February 2026

EYFS Children Enjoy Exciting Adventure at Hamsterley Forest

The Early Years team at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Coundon enjoyed a magical outdoor learning experience last week as Nursery and Reception pupils headed to Hamsterley Forest for a day of adventure, exploration and storytelling. The visit formed part of the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum, supporting children’s physical development, communication skills and love of reading. Excitement filled the air as the children set off on a special mission: to hunt for the Gruffalo!

Durham Dance Festival
20 February 2026

St Joseph’s Pupils Shine at Year 1/2 Durham Dance Festival

Children from St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Coundon, took to the stage yesterday with an inspiring performance at the Durham Dance Festival—an event that brought together young performers from across the region. In the weeks leading up to the festival, our Year 1/2 class worked with great enthusiasm and determination, practising their routine together to ensure they were ready for the big moment. Their hard work certainly paid off.

Rockstar Number Day
16 February 2026

Rockstar Number Day Rocks St Joseph’s Coundon!

St Joseph’s, Coundon, was filled with energy and excitement last week as children across the school celebrated Rockstar Number Day—a fun, maths‑focused event inspired by Times Table Rockstars. The day began with an epic Rock Dance Party, where children arrived dressed as their favourite rockstars, ready to kick off a day filled with music, movement and plenty of number fun. Classrooms were buzzing as pupils took part in a range of maths activities, problem‑solving challenges and, of course, lots of Times Table Rockstars battles to boost confidence and recall skills.

Image of National Storytelling Week: A Magical Week of Reading at St. Joseph’s Coundon!
6 February 2026

National Storytelling Week: A Magical Week of Reading at St. Joseph’s Coundon!

What an incredible National Storytelling Week it has been at St. Joseph’s! Our school has been buzzing with creativity, curiosity, and a shared love of stories. From raps and riddles to masked mystery readers, the week has been filled with unforgettable moments that brought our whole community together.

SSAFA Durham at St Joseph's Coundon
2 February 2026

Coundon History Project with SSAFA Durham

As part of our continuing partnership with SSAFA Durham, our Year 5/6 pupils were delighted to welcome Mike and Kevin into school this week. Their visit formed another valuable part of our ongoing work with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, helping our children learn about the lives and stories behind local soldiers who served during the First World War.

Image of Year 1/2 Celebration of the Word at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Coundon
20 January 2026

Year 1/2 Celebration of the Word at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Coundon

Last week, our Year 1 and Year 2 children at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Coundon led a beautiful Celebration of the Wordfocusing on the Epiphany — the feast day that remembers the visit of the Three Wise Men to the baby Jesus.

Image of Attendance Challenge at St Joseph’s Coundon – Making Every Day Count!
12 January 2026

Attendance Challenge at St Joseph’s Coundon – Making Every Day Count!

At St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Coundon, we believe that excellent attendance is key to success. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our brand-new Attendance Challenge – designed to encourage children to be in school every day and celebrate their commitment to learning!

Image of Lights, Camel, Action – The Sequin!
19 December 2025

Lights, Camel, Action – The Sequin!

A Show‑Stopping Performance at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Coundon. What an unforgettable performance our wonderful children at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Coundon delivered last week! Our festive production, Lights, Camel, Action – The Sequin, lit up the stage and filled the hall with joy, sparkle and plenty of proud smiles from families and staff alike.

Image of How To Steal Christmas – Year 5/6 Writing Spotlight!
18 December 2025

How To Steal Christmas – Year 5/6 Writing Spotlight!

Creative Writing Fun at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Coundon. Our brilliant Year 5/6 pupils at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Coundon have had an exciting week diving into a festive (and slightly mischievous!) writing topic inspired by the classic Christmas character — The Grinch.

Image of ¡Hola Amigos! Celebrating Spanish Day at St Joseph’s Coundon
21 November 2025

¡Hola Amigos! Celebrating Spanish Day at St Joseph’s Coundon

Our school was filled with colour, creativity, and culture as we celebrated Spanish Day! This special event strengthened our links with our partner school in Estepona, Spain. Pupils enjoyed creating postcards, cards, and letters to send to their friends overseas – each one filled with warm greetings and a big ¡Hola amigos!