Religious Education

Religious Education

St. Patrick’s provides an environment in which children can grow in their knowledge and understanding of the Catholic Faith and develop their own relationship with Christ. We want our children to understand that religion is not just for learning but for living. To complement the religious education which already takes place in the children’s homes and parishes we teach the “God Matters” religious education programme, enriched by appropriate use of the Old Testament and the Gospels. Children also learn about liturgy and the sacraments. Within the topics there are opportunities for exploring and appreciating aspects of other faiths. We encourage links with other faiths and cultures whenever we can to broaden children’s understanding.

In Year 3 children being prepared for First Holy Communion and Reconciliation through Parish based programmes will be supported by the school. The year 3 teacher liaises with Parish catechists regarding the programme to be followed.

Prayer Life

At St. Patrick’s we help our pupils to develop a reverential attitude in their prayer life and to make prayer a natural part of their daily lives. Children are exposed to a variety of prayer experiences, both formal and informal, private and communal. Children are given opportunities to compose their own prayers and take an active part in school Masses and non-Eucharistic liturgies. Daily collective worship takes place either as a whole school, key stage or class. It provides an opportunity for children and teachers to worship and reflect on the Liturgy, develop the current “God Matters” theme and consider spiritual, moral, social and cultural issues. Parents have the right to withdraw their child from collective worship and religious education, which we respect. As a Catholic school, however, both are an integral part of our mission and we would hope that parents would not exercise this option.

School Masses, Assemblies and Class Collective Worship takes place during the year and parents are welcomed and encouraged to join their children on these occasions.