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Catholic Social Teaching
CAFOD Catholic Social Teaching
Catholic Social Teaching: Nurturing Hearts, Inspiring Minds to Action
Our school mission, 'Nurturing hearts, inspiring minds', is at the centre of all we do. It is a mission deeply rooted in the Word of God and our commitment to following the teaching and example of Jesus. A vital way we live out this mission is through our active engagement with Catholic Social Teaching (CST).
CST is the Church's rich tradition of wisdom about how to build a just society and live holy lives amidst the challenges of the modern world. It calls us to put our faith into action, inspiring our minds to find creative solutions and nurturing our hearts to respond with compassion.
Our Foundation: The Dignity of the Human Person
At the very heart of Catholic Social Teaching is the profound belief that every single person is created in the image and likeness of God. This truth gives each of us a unique and undeniable worth. In our school, we nurture hearts by ensuring that all pupils can clearly express that they are valued as unique individuals. This understanding is the foundation for our deep respect for the personal dignity of ourselves and of others, creating a community where pupils feel happy, confident, and secure.
Our Guiding Principles
In line with the themes promoted by CAFOD, we use the principles of CST to guide our actions. As a school community, we are committed to making these principles a lived reality.
Each half term we focus on the following themes to focus the whole school on one principal at a time. Whilst 'the common good' and 'peace' are not distinct areas for a half term theme, they underpin all our work:
Autumn 1 - Stewardship
Autumn 2 - Subsidiarity
Spring 1 - Option for the poor and vulnerable
Spring 2 - Dignity of the human person
Summer 1 - Solidarity
Summer 2 - Participation
The Common Good and Peace:
We understand that we are one global family, called to live in solidarity with one another. We actively pursue the common good, which means building a society where everyone, especially the most vulnerable, can flourish. We are called to be peacemakers. Our community is built on a foundation of high-quality relationships and a strong culture of welcome, where Christ is at the heart of our school and every person is valued.
Subsidiarity
Subsidiarity is seen when pupils are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and choices in age-appropriate ways. Children are given the chance to voice their opinions and contribute to decisions that affect them, such as playground equipment, charity projects, or environmental initiatives. Decisions are made as close to the pupils as possible, respecting their ability to contribute meaningfully. This nurtures responsibility, confidence, and active participation in the school community.
Dignity of the Human Person
Every pupil is created in the image and likeness of God. This is reflected in inclusive teaching practices, fair behaviour policies, and a culture of respect where each child feels valued regardless of ability, background, or need. Acts such as celebrating individual achievements, pastoral support, and promoting kindness show that every person is worthy of love and respect. The school community works to ensure that no child feels left out or less important, reflecting the Gospel teaching that all are precious in God’s eyes.
Option for the Poor and Vulnerable:
Following the example of Jesus, our school community embodies the Church’s ‘preferential option for the poor’. We consciously ensure that our resources and efforts are directed to support those in greatest need, both materially and educationally.
Participation:
We believe everyone has a right to contribute their God-given talents to the community. We empower our pupils to participate fully in school life, encouraging them to take leadership roles and share their gifts willingly.
Solidarity:
Our commitment to justice extends beyond our school gates. We understand ourselves as part of a local and universal Church, and our pupils are proactive in responding to the needs of others locally, nationally, and globally.
From Principles to Action: A Whole School Commitment
Understanding these principles is just the first step. To truly inspire minds, we must put them into practice. Our pupils are challenged to become religiously literate and engaged young people who think ethically and theologically about the world and are aware of the demands of religious commitment in their everyday lives.
This leads directly to meaningful action:
• Pupils take a leading role in responding to the needs of others and are pro-active in finding ways of responding to the demands of CST.
• Their actions are not just performative; pupils can clearly articulate the theology underpinning their actions, connecting their service back to the Gospels and their faith.
• This commitment is lived and witnessed throughout our school, with leaders acting as inspirational witnesses to the Gospel and to Catholic Social Teaching in their direction of the school at every level.
By living out the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, we create a community that truly nurtures hearts to feel compassion and inspires minds to build a better, more just world,
following the example of Jesus Christ.