Catholic Ethos

 

Justice  •  Respect  •  Learning  •  Community

Our aim is to educate our students in an environment guided by Gospel values of justice, respect, learning and community, where all can prosper and develop. As a Catholic school we are part of the Church’s mission to “make disciples of all nations”. Although we welcome students of many faiths, all are expected to partake in the Catholic life of the school and will have Religious Education lessons throughout their time here. We aim to ensure that our students are religiously literate. This means that they have the knowledge, understanding and skills to think spiritually, ethically and theologically, and are aware of the demands of religious commitment in everyday life.

“All pupils are taught to respect other faiths and cultures. This helps them to gain a clearer understanding and appreciation of the Church’s global mission.”

Diocese of Westminster 2017

We have a busy programme of worship throughout the Liturgical Year. Prayers are said each morning at registration or assembly. We are very fortunate to have a close relationship with the parish of St. Joseph, Highgate, whose priests are enormously helpful in welcoming our pupils to Mass during school time; as well as saying Mass on Friday mornings and hearing Confessions. All students attend Mass at St Joseph’s Church several times a year; at the start and end of term and on Holy Days. Our school chapel offers students regular opportunities for personal reflection.

We also have a responsibility to remember Jesus’ words “whatever you did to the least of my brothers, you did to me”. Therefore we look at the local, national and global communities for ways to fulfil our obligations as a Christian community. We support a multitude of charities and organisations throughout each year, with particular emphasis on fundraising and donations during catholic almsgiving periods of advent and lent. We support our neighbouring parish, St Gabriel’s, with annual collections for Christmas hampers and year round food bank donations to help those in our local community who may be struggling. Other recent fundraising events include a readathon, penny appeal, non-uniform day, quiz night and stamp collection for charities including; HCPT, read for good, RNIB and local homeless organisations. Check our calendar to see how you can help support our upcoming events and fundraisers!

‘The celebration of the Church’s liturgical year is at the heart of the school’s work. Prayer and worship are woven into the school day and provide good opportunities for spiritual growth.’ 

Diocese of Westminster 2017