St Bernard’s Primary School: Catholic Life – Faith in Action 

At St Bernard’s Primary School, Catholic Life is not just a concept—it is a living, breathing reality that permeates every aspect of school life. Our children, staff, and wider community embody the values of the Gospel, demonstrating faith in action through their words, deeds, and relationships. 

Faith in Action: Living the Gospel 

Young Senior Leaders as Ambassadors 

Our Young Senior Leaders serve as proud ambassadors during school events such as Open Evenings. They confidently welcome parents and visitors, sharing their experiences and contributions with pride. Their leadership reflects their deep connection to the school’s mission and values. 

Walking the Walk 

Children at St Bernard’s don’t just talk about faith—they live it. They echo the Word of God in their conversations and actions, often speaking about the importance of “walking the walk.” This phrase has become a lived mantra, guiding their behaviour and choices. 

Forgiveness and Compassion 

Understanding that forgiveness is a divine calling, our pupils recognize its challenges and strive to embody it in their daily lives. They use their faith to help them forgive others, showing maturity and empathy beyond their years. 

Community Engagement: Local, National, and Global 

Local Outreach 

Our children actively support the local community by: 

  • Delivering food parcels 

  • Singing and reading in local rest homes 

  • Sending cards to residents 

  • Forming guards of honour and attending funerals of neighbours, ex-staff, and governors 

These acts of kindness reflect their understanding that every person is precious in God’s eyes. 

Global Awareness and Response 

St Bernard’s pupils respond with compassion to global crises. Their fundraising efforts extend to: 

  • Foxton Shelter 

  • CAFOD 

  • Ukraine relief efforts 

  • Coppafeel (breast cancer awareness) 

  • CDHUK (supporting families affected by Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia) 

Their desire to help others is proactive and heartfelt, demonstrating a deep sense of global citizenship rooted in Catholic values. 

Living the Mission 

Identity and Pride 

Being part of St Bernard’s is a source of pride for our children. They speak of “wearing their badges with pride,” understanding that their identity as members of a Catholic school calls them to live with integrity, kindness, and respect. 

Mission Statement 

“You are precious in His eyes” is more than words—it is a guiding principle. Children strive to live this out daily, showing love and respect to one another and embracing their role in a faith-filled community. 

School Song 

Our school song, More than Many Sparrows, encapsulates our mission and is sung with joy and conviction. It serves as a reminder of God’s love and the importance of faith in action. 

Leadership and Responsibility 

Children contribute meaningfully to the Catholic Life of the school through various roles: 

  • Fundraising Club 

  • Rosary Club 

  • Buddies 

  • School Council 

  • Playground Leaders 

  • Young Prayer Leaders 

  • Young Senior Leaders 

  • Library Leaders 

These responsibilities are undertaken with seriousness and dedication, reflecting their commitment to service and leadership. 

Spiritual and Charitable Activities 

Our pupils actively participate in a wide range of spiritual and charitable initiatives: 

  • CAFOD Advent Service 

  • Carol singing in the community 

  • Macmillan Coffee Mornings 

  • Harvest parcel collections and deliveries 

  • Lunchtime Young Prayer Leader sessions 

  • Class-led prayer and liturgy 

  • Fundraising for Mary’s Meals, CAFOD, and Northwest Air Ambulance 

  • Supporting vulnerable children 

  • Rosary Club 

  • Metanoia Project 

  • MAT Mass 

  • Collections for St Bernard’s Foodbank, Sal’s Shoes, and Cenacolo 

Impact 

The impact of our Catholic Life is profound. Our children understand that they are precious to God, and this belief shapes their interactions with others. They recognize that every person is deserving of love, dignity, and respect. Their actions—both big and small—demonstrate a living faith that is compassionate, inclusive, and deeply rooted in Gospel values.