The Catholic Life of the School

As a Sacred Heart school, we are inspired by the mission and charism of the Society of the Sacred Heart and the vision of St Madeleine Sophie Barat. Sacred Heart education seeks to form young people who are rooted in faith, committed to intellectual growth, aware of their social responsibilities, active in building community, and inspired to be agents of justice and peace in the world. These goals underpin all aspects of school life and encourage our students to use their gifts and talents in the service of others.

Fundraising and charitable outreach form an important part of our mission also. Throughout the year, students, staff, governors, parents, alumnae and friends of the school work together to support a wide range of local, national and international charities. Through initiatives such as CAFOD appeals, food bank collections, Advent and Lenten appeals, sponsored activities, community projects and awareness campaigns, our school community responds to the Gospel call to love our neighbour and stand in solidarity with those in need.

Our charitable activities provide meaningful opportunities for students to put Catholic Social Teaching into action. Through fundraising, volunteering and acts of service, students learn the importance of human dignity, the common good, stewardship and care for the most vulnerable. These experiences help to develop compassion, leadership, generosity and a lifelong commitment to making a positive difference in society.

Collective worship is at the heart of life in our Catholic school. It provides a special opportunity for our students and staff to come together in prayer, reflection and celebration of our faith. Through assemblies, liturgies, Masses and moments of quiet reflection, we encourage our young people to deepen their relationship with God, grow in understanding of Gospel values and reflect on how they can serve others in their daily lives.

Rooted in our Catholic tradition, collective worship helps foster a strong sense of community, belonging and shared purpose. It invites everyone to reflect on the dignity of each person, the importance of compassion and the call to live out Christ's message through their words and actions. Whether gathered as a whole school, in year groups or within tutor groups, these moments of worship enrich the spiritual life of our school and support the faith journey of every member of our community.

Our students play an active role in planning and leading prayer and worship across the school. Through their involvement, they develop confidence, leadership skills and a deeper understanding of the importance of faith in action. At the centre of this work is the Kairos Centre, our chaplaincy hub, which serves as a welcoming space for prayer, reflection, retreat activities and faith formation. The Kairos Centre provides opportunities for students to work alongside our chaplaincy team in preparing meaningful acts of worship and in supporting the spiritual life of the school community.