Within our school community, ‘Mini Vinnies’ comprises a group of enthusiastic children aged between 7 to 11, with some even younger, who have embraced the ethos of service and compassion. With the approval of their parents and the support of our school, these young individuals have embarked on a journey towards becoming lifelong ‘Vincentians’.

The ‘Mini Vinnies’ initiative fosters a spirit of empathy and social responsibility among our students. Through a range of activities and projects, our young members learn the value of lending a helping hand to those in need and making a positive difference in their communities.

From assisting the elderly to supporting local charities and organising fundraisers, our ‘Mini Vinnies’ are actively engaged in various initiatives that aim to create a more caring and inclusive society.

As parents, you can take pride in knowing that your child is part of a program that instills valuable life skills and values, preparing them to become compassionate leaders of tomorrow.

Stay informed about the latest activities and achievements of our ‘Mini Vinnies’ group by following our social media pages.

To find out more about Mini Vinnies, click on this link: http://www.minivinnies.org.uk/index.php

Our Projects

Music in Mind

Our Mini Vinnies and Chaplaincy children are Dementia Friends. Through Music in Mind we are supporting those in our community affected by dementia. We sang at a special carol serve at Christmas and support the group at their monthly meeting serving drinks and cakes.

Sister School St Gerard’s

We collaborate closely with St. Gerard’s Sister Primary School’s Mini Vinnies to cultivate ideas, create prayer spaces, and provide support for charitable endeavors. Together, our partnership fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, enabling us to make a greater impact in serving our community and those in need. Through joint efforts and mutual support, we strive to instill values of compassion, empathy, and social responsibility in our students, empowering them to become compassionate leaders and active contributors to society.

St Gerard's Primary School

Charity Work

Our Mini Vinnies are actively involved in supporting charitable causes, demonstrating a commitment to service and compassion. Among the charities they support are FareShare, CAFOD, and Missio, although their dedication extends beyond these organisations. Through various fundraising initiatives, awareness campaigns, and hands-on volunteering efforts, our Mini Vinnies exemplify the values of solidarity and generosity instilled in our school community. Their involvement not only makes a positive impact on those in need but also fosters a sense of social responsibility and empathy among our students. Our children recently visited the FareShare Middlesbrough warehouse to find out more about the operations of this charity and how they can support.

fareshare-logo-500px - The Trussell Trust Missio Logo - Missio, CAFOD-logo-blog-example-image - CAFOD Blog

Prayer Garden

The Mini Vinnies and Chaplaincy team, along with RE governor Mrs. Lyth, planted our prayer garden together, embodying the spirit of stewardship and reverence for creation as encouraged in Laudato Si’.

Prayer Spaces

Our Chaplaincy children take an active role in organising Prayer Spaces, which are designed to resonate with the Liturgical season and significant events. During November’s Special Month of Remembrance, Mini Vinnies and Chaplaincy collaborate to create dedicated prayer areas within the chapel. Here, children can engage with a Book of Remembrance, contributed to online by parents, alongside special prayers and poppies for decoration. Additionally, they explore stories about local soldiers, fostering a deeper understanding of sacrifice and commemoration.

Moreover, the involvement of Year 6 Mini-Vinnies and the Chaplaincy team in guiding students through the Rosary prayers adds richness to our Catholic life. By setting up the Chapel daily and facilitating a virtual rosary presentation throughout October, they embody the values upheld by our school community. These values, rooted in the principles of our VSP society, include compassion, empathy, and reverence for tradition. Through these activities, students not only deepen their spiritual connection but also exemplify virtues of service, solidarity, and prayerful reflection.

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