School’s eco activities
Dear Editor: St John’s Catholic Primary School in Bath, part of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded the CAFOD LiveSimply Award, recognising the school’s commitment to living simply, sustainably, and in solidarity with others.
The award, administered by the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), celebrates schools that demonstrate a clear commitment to global citizenship and caring for both people and the planet through faith-inspired action.
At St John’s, pupils have been at the heart of this achievement. Across the school, children have embraced everyday actions that reflect a commitment to sustainability, including reducing waste, saving energy, and supporting those in need. Their growing understanding of how small actions can make a meaningful difference has been a real strength of the school’s work.
A key role in this success has been played by the school’s pupil led Eco-Committee, who have led initiatives to improve recycling systems and encourage responsible environmental habits across the school community. Their enthusiasm and leadership have helped to embed sustainability into daily school life.
The school’s Chaplaincy Team has also made a significant contribution, supporting a wide range of charitable initiatives and encouraging pupils to think of others locally and globally.
The school would also like to extend its sincere thanks to the PTA for their generous support in funding the development of the LiveSimply garden. This dedicated space is now becoming a place for learning, reflection and growth, helping pupils to develop a deeper appreciation of the natural world.
The LiveSimply Award is a reflection of the whole school community working together, with pupils leading the way in demonstrating how faith, action and responsibility can come together to make a positive difference.
Huge congratulations to St John’s Catholic Primary School on achieving the CAFOD LiveSimply Award. This is a wonderful reflection of the school’s commitment to living out its Catholic mission in a very real and meaningful way.
The leadership shown by pupils on the Eco-Committee is especially impressive, and it is inspiring to see children so actively engaged in caring for our world and for others. This achievement is a real testament to the strength of the whole school community, including staff, families and the PTA, working together to make a positive difference.
Helen Taylor, Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust
DHI and ketamine
Dear Editor, I’m getting in touch with your readers from Developing Health & Independence (DHI), a local charity supporting people across Bath and North East Somerset.
We’re currently promoting our annual Reach Out conference, which is for families and carers affected by a loved one’s drug or alcohol use. It’s an issue that often goes unseen, with many people feeling isolated due to stigma, so we’re really keen to raise awareness locally.
This year’s event takes place in Keynsham and includes a particular focus on ketamine, alongside personal stories from people with lived experience and insights from professionals. It’s designed to help people feel less alone, better informed, and more able to access support.
The free event is on Thursday 18 June, 2026, and runs from 1-4.30pm at the Somerdale Pavilion in Keynsham.
Marianne Rawlins
Developing Health & Independence
Zenith Youth Theatre
Dear Editor, The award-winning musical, Hadestown, comes to Bath, this summer! Zenith Youth Theatre Company is proud to present Hadestown, the internationally acclaimed musical by Anais Mitchell, this July. The ancient myth of Orpheus and Eurydice will be brought to life in a bold new production.
When Eurydice is drawn into the industrial underworld ruled by Hades, the young musician, Orpheus, embarks on a dangerous journey to bring her home. Armed only with his music, he challenges the powers of the underworld and risks everything for love.
Blending folk, jazz and contemporary musical theatre, Hadestown tells a timeless story of love, hope and sacrifice.
The talented young cast, live orchestra and visually striking staging inspired by mythology and industry, make this a production not to be missed!
Over the last 63 years, Bath’s Zenith Youth Theatre Company has built a reputation for ambitious productions performed by young people from the city and surrounding areas. It provides opportunities for performers to develop their skills while presenting high-quality theatre to local audiences. Hadestown continues that tradition with a powerful, thought-provoking production.
Ticket prices and performances: Weds 8 July 7:30pm & Thu 9 July 7:30pm. Full price £14 (plus £1.09 booking fee). Cons £12 (plus £0.94 booking fee) Family ticket – £42 admits 4 (plus £3.28 booking fee). Fri 10 July 7:30 pm: All tickets £15 (plus £1.17 booking fee). Sat 11 July 2:30pm: All tickets £12 (plus £0.94 booking fee). Sat 11 July 7:30pm: All tickets £15 (plus £1.17 booking fee). Tickets via Ticketsource.
Jacqui Burke
Zenith Youth Theatre
Mental Health Challenge
Dear Editor, People in and around Bath are being encouraged to get together outside and cover 100km before the end of September – making the most of the great outdoors and longer days.
Community and connection are at the heart of this year’s challenge. It’s hoped that families, groups of friends and colleagues will come together and cheer each other on in support of two vital local youth charities – Mentoring Plus and Off the Record Bath & North East Somerset.
The challenge officially stepped out with a launch walk through Bath on 13 May, marking Mental Health Awareness Week – the first of a series of guided community walks people can join over the summer.
The Big BaNES 100k summer challenge is an award-winning initiative between the charities and several local organisations that champion the benefits of getting active outside and exploring new places – including The Bath 5k Map, Walk Bath and Bathscape.
Created to be a flexible challenge everyone can enjoy, challengers can cover the distance individually or as part of a team.
You can find out more and sign up by following @Bath5kMap and @walkingsolvesbath on Instagram.
Bex Shreeve
Mentoring Plus