St Catharine’s Primary School is named after St Catharine of Alexandria, one of the Church’s most inspiring early Christian witnesses. Her story has shaped our identity as a school and continues to guide our mission, virtues and daily life together.
Born in the late 3rd century, St Catharine was known for her remarkable intelligence, strong faith and deep sense of justice. Tradition tells us that she challenged the powerful with wisdom far beyond her years, speaking courageously in defence of Christian truth. Despite the risks she faced, she remained steadfast in her love for Christ and her commitment to caring for others.
When she refused to abandon her faith, she was imprisoned and eventually martyred. Yet those who encountered her witnessed not fear, but extraordinary compassion and strength. Her life continues to shine as an example of courage, holiness and unwavering trust in God.
It is St Catharine’s qualities that shape our three core virtues, chosen with our pupils, families and staff: Courage – Compassion – Community.
In following her example, we encourage our children to seek truth, stand up for what is right, show kindness to all, and recognise the dignity of every person – reflecting the principles of Catholic Social Teaching in our everyday actions.
Each year we celebrate St Catharine’s Day, on the 25th November. We hold a special mass in our church with the community, followed by celebrations in school. Here’s our 2025 day:
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Our Links with the Parish and Church
Our connection to St Catharine’s Church is an important part of our community life and plays a central role in the spiritual formation of our pupils. We work closely with the parish priest and parish community to help children grow in their relationship with God and understand their place within the wider Church family. This partnership enriches the prayer life of the school and provides our pupils with regular, meaningful encounters with faith.
Celebrating Mass Together
Our children gather regularly at St Catharine’s Church for Mass, both at key points in the liturgical year and for special school celebrations. These include:
- Whole-school and class Masses
- Feast days and Holy Days of Obligation
- Advent and Lent liturgies
- End-of-term celebrations
Children are encouraged to take active roles as readers, musicians and singers. These opportunities help them grow in confidence, leadership and ownership of their faith.
Preparing Children for the Sacraments
We work closely with the parish to support children preparing for the Sacraments of:
- Reconciliation
- First Holy Communion
- Confirmation (where appropriate year groups are involved)
Although sacramental programmes are led by the parish, the school plays an essential supporting role by:
- Teaching the children the foundations of faith as part of our RE curriculum
- Encouraging prayer, reflection and understanding of the sacraments
- Providing dedicated learning time and resources
- Celebrating the children’s milestones in assemblies, liturgies and class prayer
- Strengthening the partnership between parish, school and families
