In accordance with the expectations of the Prayer and Liturgy Directory, we ensure that opportunities for prayer and liturgy are carefully planned, inclusive, and rooted in Scripture, while also fostering the active participation of all pupils.

A weekly Celebration of the Word takes place in every class and is a valued part of our school’s prayer life. These celebrations are both child-led and teacher-led, enabling pupils to progressively develop their confidence, independence, and understanding of leading prayer.

Each week, a group of children works collaboratively to prepare and lead a Celebration of the Word with their peers. Rooted in the Gospel and the wider Scriptures, these celebrations invite children to reflect prayerfully on God’s Word. Pupils take ownership of selecting an appropriate Bible passage, often drawing on the liturgical calendar, their class saint, or themes relevant to their lived experience, such as friendship, honesty, or forgiveness. They also thoughtfully plan elements of prayer, music, and other reflective activities to support meaningful engagement.

The structure of these celebrations follows the recognised pattern of Gather, Word, Response, and Mission. During Gather, children create a prayerful atmosphere, often arranging a focal point with meaningful artefacts such as candles, rosary beads, or other religious items; occasionally, this may take place in our prayer garden to enhance reflection. In the Word, pupils proclaim a carefully chosen Scripture passage linked to their theme. This is followed by Response, where children lead their peers in prayerful or reflective activities, such as writing prayers or personal commitments, which may be displayed on the class prayer table as an ongoing reminder. Finally, in Mission, pupils encourage one another to go forth and live out the message of the Gospel in their daily lives, for example by sharing the Good News, composing prayers or poems, or raising awareness of a particular issue.

Through this approach, we nurture a deepening relationship with God, ensuring that prayer and liturgy are meaningful, participatory, and central to the life of our school community.