A Guide for Non-Catholic Parents:

If you are a non-Catholic parent who has chosen to send your child to a Catholic primary school, you may have some questions about what to expect. Catholic schools are not just places where children learn academic subjects, but also where they are nurtured in their faith and moral development. Catholic schools aim to provide an education that is based on the teachings and the values of the Catholic Church, and that respects the diversity of beliefs and backgrounds of all pupils.

In this guide, we will explain some of the terms and practices that you may encounter in our Catholic School.

What is RE?

Religious Education (RE) is a core subject in the curriculum of every Catholic school. It is not just about teaching facts about religion, but also about helping children to explore their own beliefs, values and spirituality. RE helps the children to learn about other religions and cultures, and to develop respect and tolerance for people of different faiths. 

What is prayer?

Prayer is an essential part of Catholic life.  It is a way of communicating with God through both talking and listening.  Prayer can be personal or communal, formal or informal, silent or spoken.

Prayer enables communication with God through both talking and listening.

Prayer can take many forms:

Adoration - Praising God for his greatness and goodness

Confession - Saying sorry for mistakes and wrong doing

Thanksgiving - Thanking God for His blessings and gifts

Supplication - Asking God for help/guidance

Intercession - Praying for others who are in need or suffering

Prayer can also be expressed through gestures such as making the sign of the cross, kneeling or bowing.

In our school, prayer is a part of everyday life.  Pupils may pray individually or collectively at various times of the school day, such as before meals, in Prayer and Liturgy or during class time.  

What is Mass?

Mass is the central act of worship of the Catholic Church, which culminates in celebration of the Sacrament of the Eucharist.  The Eucharist is the belief that bread and wine are consecrated and become the body and blood of Christ.  Mass is more than just a memorial of the Last Supper, when Jesus instituted the Eucharist.  It is also a representation of His sacrifice on the cross, which he offered for all our salvation.  In every Mass, Catholics believe that Christ is truly present on the altar and offers himself to God the Father through the ministry of an ordained priest.

As non-Catholics, all are welcome to join us in the Mass.  Only baptized Catholics are permitted to receive Holy Communion.  You may wish for a blessing from the priest, we ask you cross your arms across your chest as you approach the priest.  

We hope that this short guide enables you to have some understanding of our Catholic faith.