Catholic Life
As a Catholic school, Christ lies at the centre of all that we do. Prayer plays a very important role in helping the children to recognise Jesus and to promote their spiritual development.
Our children say morning, lunchtime, afternoon and home time prayers every day. The RE curriculum allows regularly opportunities for the children to pray around a class focal point and to reflect on key religious themes. Class liturgical prayers are performed regularly and parents are invited into school to share these prayerful experiences with the children. Children also plan and lead prayers during class Masses and whole school masses, as per planner.
Progression of Prayer
We also teach children specific prayers throughout their time at St. Mary Magdalen’s, as shown below:
| Phase / Term | Autumn | Spring | Summer |
|
EYFS
|
Sign of the Cross
Morning Prayer Grace before Meals Evening prayer |
Whole School Liturgical Prayer | Hail Mary
|
| KS1 | As above, plus…
Our Father |
Prayer to my Guardian Angel
|
Eternal Rest
Glory be to the Father
|
|
LKS2
|
As above, plus…
Apostles Creed |
The Confiteor
|
Act of Contrition
Come Holy Spirit
|
| UKS2
|
As above, plus…
The Memorare |
Gloria
|
Hail Holy Queen
|
Sacramental Preparation
Our Year 4 children receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Holy Communion.
Reconciliation
The sacrament of Reconciliation is received by baptised Catholic children. All children in Year 4 are included in the celebration of the sacrament and our inclusive ethos ensures that those children who are not baptised Catholics are enabled to participate as fully as possible in supporting their classmates during the programme.
Holy Communion
The children prepare thoroughly for this Sacrament. The preparation takes place during RE lessons and there are also meetings between school, parents, and the parish priest. In addition to this, children and parents in Year 4 attend twilight sessions in order to further deepen their understanding.
The children receive Holy Communion after Easter. This sacrament is widely celebrated by the entire school and parish community.