At Our Lady of Peace Catholic Primary and Nursery School, Catholic Life is at the heart of everything we do. As a Catholic school, we are committed to nurturing the spiritual growth of every pupil, embedding our faith deeply into daily school life. Our ethos is not just a statement but a lived experience, guiding our actions, relationships, and the way we care for our community.
The Importance of Catholic Life
Pope Leo XIII once said, “The education of youth is the most important duty of the State.” We believe that Catholic education is a vital part of this duty, offering pupils a foundation built on Gospel values and a relationship with Christ. Catholic Life at our school is given the highest priority, ensuring that the ethos of our school is actively sought and cherished by all members of the school community.
Our Mission Statement, “With Christ in our hearts, together we grow,” reflects our commitment to growing not only academically but spiritually and morally. This mission shapes our daily routines, practises, policies, and procedures — creating an environment where every child feels safe, valued, and loved.
Living Our Faith Every Day
We believe that every child is made in the image of God, as expressed in Genesis 1:27: “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” This profound truth underpins our approach to education and care, reminding us that each pupil is unique and precious.
Our daily pattern of prayer is a cornerstone of school life, inviting pupils to grow closer to God regardless of their ability or faith background. Prayer is inclusive and nurturing, helping children develop a personal and meaningful connection with their faith.
Opportunities to Deepen Faith and Serve Others
Catholic Life at Our Lady of Peace is rich with opportunities for pupils to deepen their relationship with God and live out their faith in practical ways. This is achieved through:
- Prayer and Reflection: Daily prayer times and special liturgical celebrations.
- Religious Education: Thoughtful lessons that explore Scripture, Church teachings, and Catholic traditions.
- Sacramental Life: Preparation for and celebration of the Sacraments of the Church, helping children experience God’s grace.
- Charity and Service: Active involvement in local and global charity work, teaching pupils the importance of compassion and the Common Good.
- Community Engagement: Supporting causes and initiatives that build a better world for all, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy.
Through these experiences, pupils learn that they have the power to make a difference — contributing positively to society and living out the Gospel values in their everyday lives. With Christ in their hearts, the children learn to use the principles of Catholic Social Teaching along with the British Values to ensure that together we grow and develop as individuals.
Our Commitment to You
At Our Lady of Peace, we understand that faith formation is a partnership with families and the wider community. We warmly invite parents and carers to join us in this journey, supporting the growth of each child in faith and knowledge.