Catholic Social Teaching
I want to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to you, our St Mary’s families, for your ongoing support and partnership in nurturing our pupils’ growth — both academically and spiritually. At the heart of all that we do here at St Mary’s is our commitment to Catholic Social Teaching, or CST, which truly defines the ethos and mission of our school.
Our Mission Statement, “Our School, Our Family, Modelled on Christ’’,” is not simply words on a page. It is a living guide that shapes how we foster a compassionate, supportive, and caring community. Catholic Social Teaching emphasises the dignity of every human person, the importance of community and participation, and our shared responsibility to care for God’s creation. These principles are woven deeply into every aspect of school life, encouraging our pupils to live out their faith through meaningful action and service.
Within our curriculum and daily activities, CST inspires our pupils to understand and engage with important issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental stewardship. Through lessons, projects, and school-wide initiatives, we help our pupils develop a strong sense of social responsibility and a deeper appreciation of their role in the world. For example, our pupils actively participate in service projects that support both local and global communities, learning first-hand about the needs of others and how their efforts can make a tangible difference.
In our classrooms, thoughtful discussions and reflections on CST enable pupils to connect their faith with real-world challenges. By exploring topics such as human rights, economic justice, and environmental care, our pupils gain the knowledge and compassion needed to contribute to building a more just and compassionate society. This holistic approach prepares them not only for academic success but also for living out their faith in meaningful ways.
It is also important to acknowledge the vital role you, as parents, play in reinforcing these values at home. Your encouragement and example help to nurture the love, care, and generosity that our pupils bring into school every day. Together, we create a community where every person is valued, every voice is heard, and every action reflects the teachings of Christ.
Moreover, we are continually striving to deepen this commitment by expanding opportunities for pupils to engage in social justice initiatives and environmental projects, ensuring they develop leadership skills and a lifelong commitment to service. We also prioritise wellbeing and inclusivity, recognising that a supportive environment is essential for every pupil to thrive and live out the dignity taught by CST.
I want to thank you once again for entrusting us with your children’s education and faith formation. It is a privilege to work alongside you in raising compassionate, responsible, and faith-filled pupils who will go on to make a positive difference in the world.
Miss McNIcoll
