Spiritual Life
The spiritual life of the school is a fundamental and integral part of its identity and ethos. It underpins all that we do and is central to all that we set out to achieve. It is evident on a daily basis – sometimes in the very subtle way it influences and enhances the relationships within the community and the behaviour of our students. Many visitors to the school comment on the welcoming friendliness that greets them when they arrive, or the calm atmosphere that is evident along its corridors. Others reflect on the belief that there is a real and overwhelming sense of family within the school community, and as such, it is a family who cares for each individual and is attentive to the needs of others. Without doubt, it is the Christian principals on which our community is built which creates such positive attributes and to a greater extent, the renowned success of our students.
In recent years we have worked hard to create a spiritual life which enhances and celebrates our Christian beliefs. Much is drawn from the fact that whilst many of our students are not Catholic we are united in our search for truth and in our belief in the dignity of the human spirit. As such, we try to create liturgical and worship opportunities which are enlightening and inspirational for both staff and students alike.
Students within each year group have a clear and specific spiritual identity and theme which links very directly with their work in RE. In Year 7 the theme is light and this is drawn upon in numerous services, including the Year 7 Service of Welcome and at Christmas, the Year 7 Service of Light. Similarly, the theme in Year 8 is Covenant which links directly with work on the Old Testament and provides numerous opportunities for retreat and reflection days. In Year 9 the idea of Truth is explored. Students in Year 9 are encouraged to work with CAFOD and discover what can be done to reduce suffering and poverty in the world today, whilst in Year 10 the theme is Service, with an obvious connection to the Lourdes pilgrimage. Finally, in Year 11 the theme is Discipleship, which focuses on preparation for the next step and which works to inspire and lead others within the school. Hence, we form a Year 11 Liturgy team whose role it is to take part in liturgies and help to set a positive example of worship and vocation to younger members of our community.
We are very proud of our Chapel, which forms a sacred place of peace and reflection and allows us to hold a Mass on Friday lunchtimes, usually prepared by an individual class. Retreats are also an increasingly common feature of our spiritual life and one which we hope to build upon and develop over the next academic year.
