Headteacher's Blog Post - Saturday 30th May 2026

As we look back on the month of May, it is impossible to do so without acknowledging the profound loss felt by our entire school and parish community. The sudden and deeply shocking passing of Canon Jason Jones has left us all saddened and reflective, yet united in prayer and gratitude for everything he represents to us.

For many of us, it remains difficult to fully comprehend that someone who was such a constant presence within our school life is no longer physically with us. Canon Jason was not simply our parish priest: he was a true friend of Bishop Vaughan, a spiritual guide, and a person whose generosity of time, faith, and care touched every part of our community.

From the moment the news reached us, the impact was immediate and deeply felt. Staff and pupils gathered in prayer, and the Chapel became, as it so often does in moments of great need, a place of quiet reflection, memory and hope. Candles were lit, prayers were offered, and a Book of Remembrance was placed for all who wished to express their thoughts and gratitude for a man who gave so much to so many.

It is difficult to capture in words the full extent of Canon Jason’s contribution to our school, because his influence was so wide-reaching and so personal. He had a rare ability to connect with individuals and with the community as a whole, always with warmth, humility and a deep sense of faith. This was evident when he supported families during times of illness or loss, offered guidance to staff, and even simply greeted pupils with kindness and encouragement; his presence was always one of reassurance and compassion.

One of the most significant and lasting aspects of his work within Bishop Vaughan was the establishment of the Junior Legion of Mary. This is something truly distinctive, offering our pupils a unique opportunity to grow in their faith through prayer, service and fellowship. Indeed, it remains the only Junior Legion of Mary group in Wales, something of which he was immensely proud and into which he poured a great deal of time and effort. What made this initiative so special was not simply its creation – or at least not that alone – but the dedication with which Canon Jason supported it. Week after week, he visited the school to meet with the pupils, to pray with them and to guide them in their understanding of service, devotion and the importance of living out their faith in practical ways. Each week, he gave a talk that focused on a different aspect of faith, the liturgical year, the lives of saints, or key aspects of theological thought,. His commitment was unwavering and the relationships he built with those young people have left a lasting impression that will continue to shape them throughout the course of their lives.

Beyond the Junior Legion, his contribution to the school's spiritual life was very considerable indeed. Many in our community will hold particularly fond memories of the annual Immaculata Service of Carols and Benediction, held in the parish church. This was always a highlight of the year – moments of beauty, reflection and shared worship that brought together pupils, staff and families in a truly meaningful way. These occasions were enhanced by the lovely setting of the Sacred Heart with its beautiful Christmas decorations, and above all, they were reverent, being filled with a sense of prayerfulness, meditation, joy and faith, reflecting clearly the spirit that Canon Jason fostered among us.

Canon Jason’s ministry also extended far beyond the school and church gates. Through his work at Morriston Hospital, he provided comfort and support to countless members of our community during some of their most difficult moments.  Many of our families, and indeed members of staff, experienced first-hand his kindness and compassion in times of illness and uncertainty. In the most challenging of times, his presence offered hope through prayer, faith, strength, comfort and a very genuine understanding.

Throughout May, as the initial shock of Canon Jason’s passing began to give way to, a deeper sense of loss, our community responded in ways that reflected the values he had nurtured. There was an overwhelming sense of unity, of shared purpose and of quiet determination to honour his legacy through the way we continue to live and work together. Pupils have demonstrated exceptional maturity and reverence, supporting one another, engaging in prayer and reflection, and choosing to participate in the various acts of remembrance that have taken place or are scheduled in the coming days. Many will attend the Requiem Mass at the Cathedral, either as part of a large school group or with their families. In addition, they have gathered in the school Chapel, are attending the Novena Masses and they will be preparing for next month’s school-based Service of Remembrance and Gratitude. Their contributions – whether through prayer, written tributes, or simply the way they have conducted themselves – have been a powerful reminder of the impact Canon Jason had on their lives. In their compassion, respect, and willingness to support one another, we see clearly the values that he worked so hard to instil: humility, service, kindness, and faith.

As a school, we have also taken time to reflect more formally on Canon Jason’s legacy. Plans are underway to pay him appropriate tribute, as referenced above. These will bring together different groups within the school – including the Junior Legion of Mary, our Faith Council and pupil leaders – to ensure that our tribute reflects the breadth of his impact. These moments of remembrance are an opportunity to give thanks, and also to ensure that his contribution continues to be recognised and celebrated in a meaningful, lasting way.

While May has been marked by sadness then, it has also been a time of reflection on what it means to be a faith community. In the midst of loss, we have been reminded of the strength that comes from our shared values and beliefs, and of the importance of living those values in our daily lives. Canon Jason showed others through his example what it means to serve with generosity, humility, and unwavering faith. Our pupils are now taking that forward thanks to his example.

As we move forward, we do so with gratitude for the gift that Canon Jason was to our school and parish. His legacy is not confined to the past but lives on in the pupils he inspired, in the traditions he helped establish, and in the countless acts of kindness and service that continue within our community.

May he rest in peace and rise in glory.

Mrs Pole