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RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
 "Catholics
believe that Religious Education is not one subject among
many but the foundation of the entire educational process.
The beliefs and values it communicates should inspire and
unify every aspect of school life. It should provide the
context for, and substantially shape, the school curriculum,
and offer living experience of the life of faith in its
practical expression". (Education Reform Bill - A
Commentary for Catholics, February 1988)
Westminster Cathedral School has a place
and function within the Church. Religious Education is in
accordance with the teachings and norms of the Catholic
Church.
This positive Catholic teaching is based
upon the "Here I Am" programme for Religious Education. The
basic question/belief for each term is explored through
three kinds of themes:
- Community of Faith - Church
Themes
- Celebration of Ritual -
Sacraments
- Way of Life - Christian Living
Themes
All children attend a daily assembly. On
Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays a whole school assembly is
led by the Headteacher or another member of staff. On
Wednesdays there is a key stage assembly, children in the
other key stage participate in an act of worship held in
their classroom. On Fridays the whole school gathers for an
assembly led by one of the classes or for a showing assembly
when children show their best work. Individual or groups of
children are mentioned for work. Individual or groups of
children are mentioned for making a particular improvement
or special effort or being particularly helpful or
co-operative.
Canon Browne, parish priest of Holy
Apostles and the School Chaplain, visits regularly. Mass is
often celebrated in school. These Masses are carefully
prepared by the children and parents are invited to join us.
Each half-term every KS2 class has a Mass
in their classroom or attends one of the weekly 10’0 Clock
Masses at the Holy Apostles. This Mass is especially geared
to the needs of the children and is prepared thoroughly in
school by teachers and clergy.
During Advent and Lent a service of
Reconciliation is organised for Years 4, 5, and 6. There is
an opportunity for Confession.
In Year 3 the children are invited to
join the Holy Apostles Parish First Reconciliation and First
Holy Communion programmes. These programmes are supported by
the school.
Parents, however, are the most important
people in the life of children. Family prayer and regular
attendance at Sunday Mass are of vital importance to the
spiritual and moral development of your children. Please
don’t let them down!
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