What is the Education Service’s vision for our school Catholic Life and Mission?

‘Follow him more nearly’

The Diocese of Westminster Education Service has developed a vision for school’s Catholic Life and Mission based on 1 John 4:7-12:

‘Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love. God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us.’ (1 John 4:7-12)

This can be incapsulated by –

God is love. We are loved. Love one another.

God is love

‘We have come to know and to believe in the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God in him. This is how love is made perfect in us. (1 John 4:16-18)

Catholics believe that God is omnibenevolent – all loving. God’s very nature is love. This is a belief that should be at the heart of all Catholic schools. Pupils need to be taught about this theological truth and must also have opportunities during prayer and liturgy to experience God’s love.

We are loved

‘God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins.’ (1 John 4: 9-10)

All members of our school communities are loved by God. Each school needs to effectively communicate this to governors, staff, pupils, and parents. Pupils and the wider school community can experience the love of God through being loved and valued. Also, through the way the school nurtures and celebrates them during their time at the school.

Love one another

‘We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us-and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.’ (1 John 3:16-18)

If God is love and we are loved, we are called to love one another. In our schools this is shown by how we treat each other, everyone should be welcomed, respected and included, whether Catholic or from another world faith or none. Time should be spent understanding and implementing the Catholic Social Teachings. This means each school would work for social justice and support charities locally, nationally and internationally.

What is the purpose of a school mission?

The purpose of a school mission is to define and communicate the overall goal and direction of the school. It serves as a guiding statement that outlines the core values, beliefs, and objectives of the school. A mission statement helps to shape the culture, identity, and priorities of the school community, including students, teachers and parents.

Key purposes of a school mission:

• Direction and Focus: A mission statement provides a clear direction and focus for the school. It outlines the purpose of the institution and helps stakeholders understand the school’s primary goals and aspirations. It serves as a reference point for decision-making, resource allocation, and strategic planning.
• Identity and Culture: A mission statement helps establish the identity and culture of the school. It reflects the values and principles that the school holds dear and communicates them to the community. A well-crafted mission statement helps create a shared sense of purpose and unity among students, staff, and parents.
• Accountability and Evaluation: A mission statement sets expectations and serves as a foundation for evaluating the performance and effectiveness of the school. It allows stakeholders to assess whether the institution is living up to its stated objectives and values. By aligning actions and initiatives with the mission, schools can hold themselves accountable for their educational outcomes.
• Communication and Marketing: A mission statement serves as a communication tool for the school to share its vision and values with the wider community. It can attract prospective students and parents who align with the school’s educational philosophy. A clear and compelling mission statement can also help differentiate the school from others in the area.
• Decision-Making and Priority Setting: A mission statement provides a framework for decision-making and priority setting within the school. It helps stakeholders make informed choices that align with the overall purpose and values of the school. When faced with competing options, the mission statement can guide decision-makers in choosing the path that best reflects the school’s mission.

A school mission statement serves as a beacon that guides the school’s actions, shapes its identity, and communicates its values. It provides a framework for decision-making, evaluation, and accountability while fostering a sense of purpose and unity within the school community.

What is the mission of Catholic education?

The purpose of Catholic schools is rooted in the religious mission and values of the Catholic Church. This mission should be the foundation of each school’s mission. Catholic schools in England and Wales were established to support Catholic parents in their responsibility for the academic, physical, spiritual, moral and religious education of their children in accordance with the teachings of the Church. Catholic education endeavours to make the person of Jesus Christ known and loved, and to place Him and the teachings of the Catholic Church at the centre of the educational enterprise. In placing ‘Christ at the Centre’, Catholic education seeks to invite all into a life of discipleship within the Body of the Church. This means that Catholic Schools are committed to promoting:

• Faith Formation: Catholic schools seek to nurture the faith of students by providing an environment where Catholic beliefs, teachings, and values are integrated into the curriculum and daily life. They aim to foster a deep understanding and practice of the Catholic faith, including sacramental understanding, prayer, worship, and character education.
• Academic Excellence: Catholic schools strive to provide a high-quality academic education that prepares students for future success. They emphasise rigorous academic standards, critical thinking, and intellectual development across various subject areas.
• Character and Moral Development: Catholic schools focus on the holistic development of students, helping them grow in character and moral virtue. They aim to instil values such as compassion, respect, responsibility, and integrity, emphasising the importance of ethical behaviour, social justice, and service to others.
• Community and Relationships: Catholic schools aim to create a sense of community and foster positive relationships among students, parents, teachers, and staff. They promote a supportive and nurturing environment where students feel valued and cared for. The community aspect includes involvement in parish life, collaboration with families, and a sense of belonging within the broader Catholic faith community.
• Evangelisation: Catholic schools see themselves as instruments of evangelisation, seeking to share the Catholic faith with students and their families. They aim to cultivate a missionary spirit, encouraging students to live out their faith in their daily lives and to contribute positively to society.
• Service and Social Justice: Catholic schools emphasise the importance of service to others and promote a commitment to social justice. They encourage students to be active participants in their communities, addressing issues of poverty, inequality, and injustice, guided by Catholic Social Teaching principles.

While Catholic schools have a distinct religious character, they also strive to provide an inclusive and welcoming environment for students from various backgrounds and faith traditions. The purpose of Catholic schools is ultimately to educate and form the whole person, integrating faith, knowledge, values, and service in order to prepare students to be responsible and compassionate members of society.

What is a charism of a Catholic school?

In the context of religious communities, a charism refers to a special gift, grace, or spiritual characteristic that is believed to be given by the Holy Spirit to a particular group or individual. It is a unique quality or focus that distinguishes the community or person and guides their mission and way of life.

The term “charism” is derived from the Greek word “charis,” which means “grace” or “favor.” Charisms are often associated with religious orders, congregations, or lay movements within the Catholic Church, but they can also be found in other Christian denominations and spiritual traditions.

Here are some key aspects of a charism:

• Inspiration and Origin: A charism is considered to be a divine gift, inspired and guided by the Holy Spirit. It is believed to emerge from the spiritual experiences, insights, or mission of a particular founder, saint, or group within the Church.
• Unique Focus: Each charism has a distinct focus or emphasis that reflects the spiritual gifts and calling of the community.
• Guiding Principles: A charism provides a set of guiding principles or values that shape the spirituality, lifestyle, and mission of the community. It influences their decision-making, community life, prayer practices, and relationships with others.
• Communal Identity: Charisms often form the basis of a community’s identity and unity. Members who share the same charism are bound together by a common purpose, spirituality, and mission. The charism helps define their sense of belonging and commitment to one another.
• Service and Mission: Charisms are usually expressed through acts of service, ministry, or mission. They guide the community in how they live out their faith and carry out their specific role in the Church and society. Charisms often have an outward focus, seeking to address the needs of others and contribute to the building of God’s kingdom.
• Discernment and Development: Charisms require discernment and ongoing nurturing. Communities and individuals need to discern the authenticity and relevance of a charism within the changing circumstances of the world. They may adapt and develop their charism while remaining faithful to its core values and principles.

Charisms play a vital role in the life of religious communities helping them live out their faith in a unique and purposeful way. They contribute to the diversity and richness of the Church, allowing different charisms to complement and support one another in the pursuit of God’s mission and this is evident by the different charisms found in our order schools across the diocese.

How to create a Catholic school mission statement?

Creating a Catholic school mission statement involves thoughtful reflection, collaboration, and a focus on the school’s unique identity and values. Here are some steps to help you in the process:

• Reflect on the school’s identity: Begin by reflecting on the school’s identity as a Catholic educational institution. Consider its history, charism, patron saints, traditions, and any specific characteristics that define the school community. Think about the school’s vision for education, faith formation, and service.
• Gather input from stakeholders: Involve key stakeholders in the mission statement creation process. This must include all school staff, teachers, parents, students, clergy, and members of the wider
• Catholic community. Conduct surveys, focus groups, or meetings to gather their perspectives on the school’s strengths, values, and aspirations.
• Identify core values: Identify the core values that are central to the school’s Catholic identity. These values may include faith, excellence, integrity, compassion, service, community, and social justice. Discuss and prioritise these values based on their significance to the school’s mission.
• Define the school’s purpose: Articulate the overarching purpose of the school. Consider the specific goals and objectives you aim to achieve in line with the Catholic faith. Think about how the school contributes to the academic, spiritual, and moral development of students, as well as its role in preparing them for active participation in the Church and society.
• Craft a clear and concise statement: Based on the reflections and input gathered, distill the information into a clear and concise mission statement. The statement should reflect the school’s identity, values, and purpose. It should be inspiring, memorable, and reflective of the school’s commitment to Catholic education. A motto or single sentence or phrase is a useful way for the mission to be communicated, known and understood.
• Seek feedback and refinement: Share the draft mission statement with stakeholders and seek their feedback. Incorporate their suggestions and refine the statement accordingly. It is essential to ensure that the mission statement reflects a collective understanding and ownership from the school community.
• Obtain approval and implementation: Communicate the mission statement widely within the school community and integrate it into the school’s policies, strategic plans, curriculum, and daily practices.

Remember that a Catholic school mission statement is not a static document but a living expression of the school’s ongoing mission and commitment. It should guide decision-making, shape the school’s culture, and inspire continuous growth and improvement.