The St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School & Parish Journal 2012

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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• Above : Mrs James always lends a helping hand. Below: nursery children celebrate our green flag

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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

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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.

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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

53

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

54

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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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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61

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

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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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