The Governors have agreed that the delivery of Religious Education at St Vincent’s will be in accordance with Diocesan Policy and is sustained through close links with the home and parish. We are following the ‘Way, the Truth and the Life' Religious Education Programme. This programme aims to encourage children’s awareness of the presence of God and to help them respond to that presence.
Our teaching of RE is reflected in the Catholic life of the school. Every day starts with prayer and reflection and these are at the heart of our learning. Celebration of the Word is another important part of the religious life of our family. During Celebration of the Word we pray together, sing hymns and reflect on aspects of our Faith within the context of our own experiences. This takes place each Wednesday morning, and is led by the children.
Prayer is an important part of our school life. In addition to our daily prayers at the beginning of the day, lunchtime and end of the day, children have the opportunity to initiate, compose and share their own prayers, responding to current affairs, national and international celebrations and disasters.
Through regular silent prayer, children experience a close and personal relationship with God. Our school Spiritual Leaders in Year 6 develop and lead prayers in school, supporting the work of younger pupils. Our Spiritual Leaders also lead the Rosary each Tuesday morning, which all children and parents are invited to. Across our school buildings and wider site, we acknowledge our Catholic faith with displays and art.
We nurture independence in prayer and children lead Celebration of the Word in the different year groups. The “Ten Ten” scheme provides us with some Catholic resources to guide adults and children in leading prayer.
We work closely with our parish church of Our Lady Help of Christians. Our children attend Mass at least once every half term and on Holy Days of Obligation. Father Mario is an important figure who guides us in our Christian journey. He regularly visits our school to celebrate masses, to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation and for other key events in our journey of faith.