Catholic Community
Steps in Faith
Supporting Catholic Life at Home
At St Philomena’s Catholic Primary, we believe that children’s faith is strengthened through the partnership between school, home, and parish. We recognise that families play the first and most important role in nurturing a child’s relationship with God, and we work alongside parents and carers to encourage a joyful, active, and meaningful Catholic life beyond the classroom.
Prayer and Spiritual Life
We encourage families to make prayer an important part of everyday life. Through opportunities in school, children develop an understanding of different forms of prayer and are encouraged to share these practices with their families. Whether through morning prayers, prayers before meals, bedtime prayers, or moments of reflection, prayer helps families grow closer to God and recognise His presence in their lives.
Family Faith Development
We aim to provide families with opportunities and resources that help them grow together in faith. Through family events, prayer opportunities, workshops, and activities, we support parents and carers in continuing their child’s spiritual journey at home.
Our hope is that every family feels confident in celebrating and sharing their faith, creating a home environment where Catholic values are lived, discussed, and experienced.
Sacramental Preparation
The Sacraments are important milestones in a child’s journey of faith. At St Philomena’s, we work closely with families to prepare children for key moments such as First Holy Communion. Parents and carers are encouraged to take an active role in this preparation with the church through meetings, prayer, and opportunities to support their child’s understanding of these special celebrations.
Living Out Catholic Values
Faith is shown through the way we treat others. We encourage families to live out Gospel values such as love, compassion, forgiveness, kindness, and service. Through helping others, showing respect, supporting those in need, and making positive choices each day, families can reflect Christ’s example and bring faith into everyday life.
Faith Across the Curriculum
Our Catholic ethos is woven throughout all areas of school life. Children explore Scripture, the lives of saints, and Catholic teachings through their learning, and we encourage families to continue these conversations at home. By connecting faith with daily experiences, children can understand how their beliefs guide their choices, relationships, and actions.
Family and Parish Involvement
We value the involvement of families in the spiritual life of our school community. Parents and carers are warmly invited to participate in Masses, celebrations, school events, and parish activities.
When families and school work together, children are supported in developing a strong sense of belonging and a deeper connection with their faith community.
A Welcoming Community of Support
At St Philomena’s, we are committed to supporting families throughout their faith journey. We welcome conversations, questions, and opportunities to grow together in faith.
If parents or carers would like to explore becoming Catholic, we can support you in contacting the parish and finding out more about OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults), previously known as RCIA.
If you would like your child to be baptised, or would like more information about baptism and preparation, please speak to us. We are happy to help families connect with the Church and support them through the next steps.
Together, as a school, family, and parish community, we can help children grow in faith and live out the message of Christ through love, service, and prayer.
