Praying the Rosary in the Prayer Garden

Throughout the month of May (traditionally known as the Month of Mary) pupils at St. Catherine’s have been gathering once a week during lunchtime in our school Prayer Garden to pray a decade of the Rosary together.

Led by our Aspiring Apostles, each child invites a friend to join them in this special time of prayer and reflection. These moments provide pupils with an opportunity to pause during the busy school day, grow in faith together and strengthen their relationship with God through prayer.

During our Rosary gatherings, pupils shared a variety of thoughtful and heartfelt intentions, including prayers:

• For those who do not yet know Jesus
• For a new Bishop to lead our diocese
• For the homeless and those in need
• For people to change negative behaviour into positive behaviour

These prayer intentions reflect the compassion, empathy and sense of social responsibility that we seek to nurture within our school community.

Gathering together to pray the Rosary is another meaningful way in which prayer and worship are woven into daily life at St. Catherine’s. It also helps pupils to recognise and celebrate the importance of Mary within the Church’s liturgical year. Through these shared experiences of prayer, children are encouraged to grow spiritually, support one another and live out Gospel values in their everyday lives.

Pupil quotes:

“We had a bracelet rosary and we prayed for different people before each Hail Mary.”

Josh, Year 4

“We were praying the rosary. It made me feel comfortable knowing that we were praying for other people.”

Liliana, Year 5

EYFS Class Liturgy 7/5/26

On Thursday 7th May, our EYFS children welcomed their parents and families to a special Class Liturgy based on our RE topic, “To the Ends of the Earth.”

The children shared their learning about the Ascension and Pentecost, explaining how Jesus returned to Heaven and sent the Holy Spirit to help us.

Together, we reflected on the Good News:

“Jesus has risen from the dead and the Holy Spirit is with us always.”

The children wore their fire crowns to symbolise the tongues of fire resting on the disciples’ heads. They sang beautifully and participated throughout the liturgy with great reverence and enthusiasm.

The children were also able to share their beautiful RE books with their adults.

Thank you to all the parents and family members who attended and supported this special celebration. We are very proud of the children and the wonderful way they shared their faith and learning.

Pupil quotes:

“I sang the waiting song. It is about the Holy Spirit.” Louie, EYFS

“We got to show our RE books to our mummies and daddies.” Adedesire, EYFS

Understanding the ‘Day by Day’ RE Curriculum 27/4/26

Here at St. Catherine’s, Religious Education is central to our pupils’ learning and development. We use Day by Day to bring the RE curriculum to life through daily reflection, discussion, and creative work.

The curriculum is organised into six key topics:

• Creation & Covenant
• Prophecy & Promise
• Galilee to Jerusalem
• Desert to Garden
• To the Ends of the Earth
• Dialogue & Encounter

Through these, children explore the story of faith and how it connects to their own lives.

In the photos shared, you’ll see examples of pupil work we are proud to celebrate—showing thoughtful responses, creativity, and growing understanding.

We hope this gives you a helpful insight into how RE is taught and experienced in our school.

Pupil quotes:

“The new RE curriculum is really understandable. You get to learn new knowledge; not just in your head, but in your heart.” Irine, Year 6

 “The new RE curriculum is really creative. We get to do lots of drawings and paintings. It helps us to understand more about God.” Evangeline, Year 5

Decorating the Cross 17/4/26

After Easter, many Catholic communities celebrate the resurrection with a simple but powerful symbol: the flowering of the cross and we do the same at St Catherine's.

At the start, the cross is bare, recalling Good Friday and the reality of suffering. But as the service continues, children are invited to place flowers onto it. Slowly, as each class added their creations, the cross is transformed into something full of colour and life.

This moment helps make the meaning of the resurrection tangible. The cross, once a sign of death, becomes a sign of new life. For children, the act of adding flowers is more than symbolic—they take part in the story itself. And for our school families, it becomes a shared experience of faith that is both simple and deeply meaningful.

Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, we were unable to celebrate our Resurrection Mass this year.

Welcome Fr Joseph! 26/3/26

Fr Boniface once again joined us for our Lenten Liturgy and the Sacrament of Reconciliation and this time brought Fr Joseph, a new addition to the parish. Fr Joseph will be joining the governance team at St Catherine's and we all look forward to him spending more time at our school.

Holy Week: A Journey Through the Easter Story 23/3/26

We celebrated Holy Week at St. Catherine’s in the week before we broke up for Easter and it was a deeply meaningful time as our whole school community journeyed together through the key moments of Jesus’ final days. Each day focused on a different part of the Easter story — from Palm Sunday and the joyful welcome of Jesus, to the Washing of the Disciples’ Feet, the Last Supper, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Crucifixion, and finally the hope-filled celebration of the Resurrection.

Every morning, pupils gathered either as a whole school or in class assemblies for 10–15 minutes of quiet reflection. These moments were simple yet powerful, bringing together prayer, scripture, music, and a hymn to help pupils enter into the story with reverence and understanding. The calm, prayerful atmosphere allowed children to reflect on Jesus’ love, sacrifice, and the message of hope at the heart of Easter.

Throughout the week, pupils explored each event in age-appropriate ways, deepening their understanding of Jesus’ journey and its meaning for us today. Whether imagining the crowds waving palms, thinking about the humility of Jesus washing feet, or reflecting on the sadness of Good Friday, pupils showed maturity, empathy, and a growing appreciation of their faith.

Holy Week is always a special time at St. Catherine’s, and this year was no exception. Our shared reflections helped us prepare spiritually for Easter and reminded us of the importance of compassion, service, and hope in our daily lives.

“We have been singing a special song about Jesus (each day).”

Pip (EYFS)

“Jesus died on the cross because He died for us.”

Milo (EYFS)

“We have been lighting the candle and reading The Bible about what Jesus went through at the time (Easter).”

Mia (Year 2)

Lenten Reflection with the Aspiring Apostles 20/3/26

Our Aspiring Apostles have been meeting weekly during Lent for a special time of reflection and prayer. Each session has focused on an important theme: Fasting, Prayer, Almsgiving, Repentance, Transformation, and Sacrifice.

We begin with a prayer, read scripture, and then the children create their own drawings inspired by the theme. These are placed around the cross, building a meaningful visual journey through Lent. We also listen to calming music to create a peaceful, reflective atmosphere, and end each session with a prayer.

The pupils have shown great thoughtfulness and creativity, growing in both confidence and faith as they lead and take part in these sessions.

“It has helped to give me a deeper meaning of Jesus and what He went through in the lead up to Easter.”

Bianka (Year 6)

“I’ve really enjoyed how we’ve been drawing the pictures (in response). I think about the pictures and try and apply this to my own life.”

Keanu (Year 5)

Fairtrade Week 16/3/26

Fairtrade week at St. Catherine’s Catholic Primary School was a wonderful celebration of justice, compassion, and global responsibility — values deeply rooted in our Catholic Life and Catholic Social Teaching. Each class began the week with a Fairtrade-themed assembly, learning about the importance of fair wages, dignity for workers, and how our choices can support communities around the world. These themes linked beautifully to the principles of Common Good, the Right to Work and Prioritising the Poor.

Following their assemblies, pupils took part in creative Fairtrade activities that brought these ideas to life. From posters and letters to government to the journey of tea and postcards, every class showed impressive imagination and enthusiasm. It was clear that pupils’ understanding of Fairtrade grew significantly as they explored how small actions can make a big difference.

One of the highlights of the fortnight was our Fairtrade tuck shop, where pupils could buy Fairtrade treats after school. This practical experience helped them see how their purchasing choices can support farmers and workers globally, turning learning into meaningful action.

Fairtrade Fortnight reminded us of our ongoing commitment to living out our Catholic mission. We are proud of the effort shown by our whole school community and hope to continue strengthening our Fairtrade work as we aim to maintain our Fairtrade School status.

“So people can have fair money and fair food. Everyone gets a fair amount.”

William (Year 1)

“Fairtrade is when you trade things fairly. If you have 2 bottles and 2 people. They each get one.”

Violet (Year 1)

Celebration of the Word - Y4 to Y3 9/3/26

Our Year 4 pupils recently led a thoughtful and engaging Celebration of the Word for the Year 3 children. The session focused on the Gospel story “Jesus Brings a Dead Girl Back to Life,” helping the younger pupils reflect on themes of faith, hope, and trust in Jesus.

Year 4 pupils carefully prepared the gathering, choosing readings, prayers, and moments of reflection. They confidently shared the scripture story, explaining how Jesus responded with compassion and power when a family was in deep sadness. Through the story, the children highlighted the message that Jesus brings hope even in the most difficult situations.

It was wonderful to see the Year 4 children taking on leadership roles and guiding their younger peers in prayer and reflection. Both year groups showed great respect and reverence throughout the celebration, making it a special and meaningful experience for everyone involved.

“I really enjoyed this experience but it was a packed room! I had to read the Bible too.”

Josh (Year 4)

 “I enjoyed it because there were a lot of people and it helped me to not be shy in the moment.”

Zoe (Year 4)

Life to the Full 2/3/26

At St. Catherine’s Catholic Primary School, we are proud to follow Ten Ten's ‘Life to the Full’ PHSE programme. Rooted in Catholic values and teaching, this programme supports our children in growing emotionally, socially and spiritually, while always recognising their God-given dignity.

Our PHSE sessions are thoughtful and reflective. We begin each lesson by lighting a candle to symbolise the presence of Jesus among us, creating a calm and respectful atmosphere. Children then watch an engaging video linked to the topic, followed by a class discussion where they can share ideas and reflect together.

To deepen their understanding, pupils complete a related activity that encourages personal reflection and application to their own lives. We end our sessions by coming together in song and prayer, thanking God for what we have learned and asking for His guidance in living it out. Through the ‘Life to the Full’ programme, we nurture not only knowledge and understanding, but also compassion, respect and faith — helping our children to truly live life to the full.

“It helps me to stay safe and to know about staying away from people who aren’t treating you well.”

Christelle (Year 5)

“It helps us understand what is right and wrong, and what to do that’s right.”

Maxim (Year 6)

“It opens your eyes to the real world.”

Ruby (Year 6)

Lent Launch 23/2/26

Lent is the 40-day season before Easter in the Catholic Church. It’s a time to prepare our hearts to celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection.

The 40 days remind us of the time Jesus Christ spent in the desert praying and fasting before beginning His mission. Lent helps children see that following Jesus takes practice and love.

Catholics focus on three simple things during Lent:

Praying – Talking to God more often.
Fasting – Giving up small comforts like sweets or extra screen time to practise self-control.
Almsgiving – Helping others through generosity and kindness.

For families, Lent isn’t about rules. It’s about growing in love, patience, and generosity, so Easter feels even more joyful and meaningful.

In school, we had a beautiful liturgy on Monday where Miss McGonigle walked us through the time Jesus spent in the desert where He was tested by the devil. In the photo above you can see the props she used to bring the story alive.

What are we doing in school to prepare our hearts?

“We have been writing promises that we can do before Easter – mine was to stop watching TV and start praying more.”

Maisie (Year 3)

“We lit a candle and we then thought about what we can do in Lent.”

Edelweiss (Year 2)

Liturgical Dance 6/2/26

Throughout the year we welcome the brilliant Kerri from Wannado Dance to lead each year group in a dance linked to our new RE topics. This is a brilliant opportunity to learn about working as a team, improve our dance skills and celebrate the key moments in the liturgical year.

Autumn 1 – Year 5 & Year 2 (Creation & Covenant)

Autumn 2 – Year 6 (Prophecy & Promise)

Spring 1 – Year 3 (Galilee to Jerusalem)

Spring 2 – Year 4 (Desert to Garden)

Summer 1 – Year 1 (To the Ends of the Earth)

Summer 2 – EYFS (Dialogue & Encounter)

All classes love the opportunity to perform their dance for friends and family, which always takes place at the end of each half-term – be sure to check ParentMail for more information!

“I like how it’s Christian related and helped me understand what Mary did for Jesus.”

Ruby (Year 6)

“It helps me feel calm and it’s fun to be with your friends and work together.”

Nuala (Year 6)

Learning About Cerebral Palsy 16/1/26

This week, our Year 3 and Year 4 pupils had the wonderful opportunity to welcome Jane to our school. She came to talk to the children about cerebral palsy, helping them learn more about the condition and what it is like to live with it.

During the visit, the pupils listened carefully as she explained what cerebral palsy is and how it affects her day-to-day life. She spoke about some of the challenges she experiences, as well as the many things she is able to do. Her talk helped the children understand that everyone’s experiences are different and that people with disabilities can still lead full lives.

The pupils were very engaged throughout the session. They had prepared some questions in advance, and they showed great curiosity and respect as Jane answered them in great detail.

It was a very positive experience for everyone involved. The children learned the importance of kindness, understanding, and inclusion, while gaining a better awareness of cerebral palsy. We are very grateful to Jane for taking the time to share her experiences and inspire our pupils.

Visits like this help our school community grow in empathy and understanding, and it was a memorable learning experience for Years 3 and 4.

“It was really interesting because I’ve never spoken to anyone with Cerebral Palsy before – I learnt how it’s difficult for her.”

Mia (Year 3)

“I think it was interesting because you learn new stuff – I learnt that you should treat everyone equally.”

Ayden (Year 3)

New Year Reflection 9/1/26

The New Year often feels like a time of fresh beginnings and new starts. Each year we make resolutions, many of which we inevitably struggle to keep! As we begin 2026 in school, we also begin our next RE topic: Galilee to Jerusalem. This offers a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to centre themselves on the birth and life of Jesus, learning about what he said and did during his time on Earth.

As a New Year begins, it feels especially important to reflect on how we can grow our relationship with Jesus. Perhaps this means taking time to be thankful for all that He has done for us. Maybe it’s about building regular prayer into our daily lives. Or it could be opening that well-worn (or dusty!) Bible and spending time engaging with scripture.

Whatever it may be, as we start this New Year we are encouraged to focus on growing in faith and reflecting on how we can become more like Jesus.

 “I would like to try to pray every night – being faithful.”

Josh (Year 4)

“I am going to work on being kinder to other people and point the way to Jesus.”

Krysten (Year 4)

Advent Reflection Autumn 2 2025

Over the past three weeks, our Liturgy Team has come together to focus on the true meaning of Christmas. This special time has been filled with reflection, scripture, and prayer, inspiring all our pupils to create beautiful and heartfelt responses.

We focused on the candles of the Advent wreath:

Week 1 - Hope

Week 2 - Love

Week 3 - Joy

Week 4 - Peace

Taking time out from our busy week to gather and reflect has been a meaningful experience for us all, deepening our understanding of the significance of this wonderful time of year.

 “The Advent reflection has been a nice, calm time when you have prayers and also writing/drawing about what we have been learning. We read the Gospel, which reminds us about God and how it’s nearly Jesus’ birthday.”

Bianka (Year 6)

“It has enabled us to get closer to God and reflect on things we have done in the past.”

Nuala (Year 6)

Nativity and Carol Concert w/b 8/12/25

It has been a wonderful week of acting, reading, and singing at St. Catherine’s! We’ve been celebrating the Christmas story through our EYFS–Y3 Nativity, Hey Ewe, and our Y4–6 Carol Concert. It is always a joy to welcome family and friends into our school for these performances, and the children thoroughly enjoyed sharing their work with an audience. All our pupils sang with enthusiasm and heartfelt joy as they celebrated the incredible news of Christ’s birth on that wondrous night in Bethlehem.

“Watching children sing and act out the true meaning of Christmas always has a big impact as the world pulls their attention to the presents or the magic, to them getting but seeing them giving, working together, being vulnerable and then sharing the heart of Christmas brings your heart back into focus of the gift of Jesus.”

Kat Archer (KS1 Parent)

“The wonderful song choices and children’s performances have left me reflecting on both the depth and beauty of the Christmas story, and also that the story is transformational for each one of us – young, old and in between.”

Kristian Tucker (KS2 Parent)

“It helped me remember that the real meaning of Christmas is Jesus’ birth.”

Eva (Year 5)

Advent Reconciliation Service 4/12/25

Fr Boniface joined us for Reconciliation yesterday. In our service to the whole school, we discussed that in Reconciliation, Jesus helps us wipe away anything that keeps his light from shining in us. The light that lit up the hall through the doorway helped pupils keep this clearly in their minds as they waited for their time with Fr Boniface.

“It made me feel not-guilty any more and free from the wrongs I’ve done.”

Grayson (Year 4)

“I felt happy and relieved to share what I’ve done wrong.”

Christelle (Year 5)

“It was nice that Father Boniface was with us because it showed the importance of what we were doing.”

Ruby (Year 6)

Spirituality Week - Catholic Social Teaching and the St Carlo Acutis Award 20/10/25

This year, St Catherine’s Spirituality Week was a wonderful opportunity for our school community to explore and launch key areas of Catholic Social Teaching. Throughout the week, pupils engaged with themes:

• the common good
• dignity of life
• prioritising the poor
• caring for creation
• promoting peace
• the right to work

As part of their learning, pupils created both a piece of artwork and a piece of writing for each Catholic Social Teaching principle, allowing them to reflect creatively and thoughtfully on how these values can be lived out in everyday life.

Inspired by the life of St Carlo Acutis, we also introduced our new St Carlo Acutis Award. Each week focuses on a specific principle and the award is given to a pupil who demonstrates that principle through their actions. Our Aspiring Apostles play an important role in this process, gathering weekly to carefully choose a deserving winner. They are looking forward to recognising their peers for living out their faith in such meaningful ways.

Spirituality Week has truly brought the Catholic Social Teaching Principles to life for our pupils, encouraging everyone to follow the example of St Carlo and make a positive difference in the world around them.

“I felt happy and also surprised (at winning the award). It felt cool when we had the statue of St. Carlo in the classroom.”

Betty (Year 4)

“I felt quite good because I’m happy people know I’m helping others out.”

Oskar (Year 4)

The Good Shepherd Celebration 25/6/25

Members of our liturgy team joined their peers from all the schools in our diocese last week for the annual 'Good Shepherd' liturgy, which took place at Arundel Cathedral. Our pupils enjoyed the time to reflect on how we can all be ‘Good Shepherds’ in our own lives. St Catherine's also brought a team of dancers who put on a showstopping performance after weeks of rehearsals! What a fantastic job everyone did in representing our school.

"It was really fun to perform for all the schools that were there and Bishop Richard, who was also very funny."

Eleanor (Year 5)

"It felt great to put on a good performance for everyone after all the hard work we put in."

Max (Year 5)