Spiritual life & Ethos

“Without confidence and love, there can be no true education.”

St. John Bosco

The mission of our school is to educate the pupils with the gospel values, traditions, and beliefs of the Catholic Faith. We do this in partnership with Parents, Guardians, and Parish Communities. This Ethos is central to everything we do.

The strong Catholic ethos of our school is evident as you step through the door. The vibrant and welcoming learning environment along with the impeccable behaviour of our pupils demonstrates the care and respect shared by all. Through our supportive and nurturing environment, each child is able to strive for excellence.

Our school mission statement ‘Together we can, with Christ by our side,’ ensures that the wellbeing and growth of every pupil is the responsibility of the whole school community.

“For where two or three meet in my name, I shall be there with them”

Matthew 18:20

Section 48 RE Inspection Report 2016

Section 48 RE Inspection Report 2016

Worship is an integral part of school life and it takes into account the religious and educational needs of all who share in it:

• Those who form part of the worshipping community in church
• Those for whom school may be their first and only experience of church
• Those from other Christian traditions – or none
• Those from other faith backgrounds

A variety of opportunities for worship are provided, including individual prayer, formal and informal group prayer in a variety of styles and settings, and the celebration of the Eucharist which is the centre of worship for the Catholic community. Opportunities for worship are linked with Feast Days and with the liturgical seasons of Advent, Lent, Christmastide and Easter.

Monday assemblies focus on the readings and Gospel from the Sunday before. Each week, merit assemblies are held in each site to recognise the achievements and talents of the wonderful pupils who make up our school community.

The pupils of St Joseph’s enjoy singing and have regular opportunities to use this skill both in class and within whole school collective worship.

Each class has the opportunity to come together and prepare an assembly which is shared with parents. These are always excellent opportunities to celebrate the success of each class, as well as individuals. Further, it allows the pupils to share their skills in drama, singing, computing, public speaking, quiet reflection and more.

Staff and pupils pray together regularly throughout the day and pupils have opportunities to compose and share prayers in class and assemblies.

Pupil voice is strong at St Joseph’s. The Apostles of Mercy are selected from each class from years 2 to 6.

They take an active role in preparing prayer services, participating in services, helping the local community, and supporting the Catholic life of the school in classrooms and the playground.