Catholic Life and Religious Education
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Religious Education
Religious education in the Diocese of Plymouth is informed by the Religious Education Directory for Catholic Schools, Academies, and Colleges in England and Wales. Working in partnership with schools, we seek to provide opportunities for young people to become ‘religiously literate and consciously engaged’, to develop ‘the knowledge, understanding and skills to reflect spiritually, and think ethically and theologically’, to ‘recognise the demands of religious commitment in everyday life.’ (Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, 2023, To know You more clearly, 6) Curriculum resources for primary schools are available from the Resources section of the website.
Catholic Social Teaching
The principles of Catholic Social teaching offer a moral framework for society based on the teachings of the Catholic Church. They are rooted in scripture and are our moral compass, guiding us on how to live out our faith in the world.
‘Our faith calls us to love God and to love our neighbours in every situation, especially our sisters and brothers living in poverty. Following in the footsteps of Christ, we hope to make present in our unjust and broken world, the justice, love and peace of God’
CAFOD
Our Catholic schools are places where young people are supported to put their faith into loving actions for others. Christ is always at the heart of the Catholic schools in our diocese.
There are seven principles of Catholic Social Teaching that schools are committed to upholding through the whole of school life, including the full curriculum and the prayer life of the school.
Human Dignity – ‘What makes me special?’ ‘What makes people special? ‘How should we treat each other?’
Family, Community and Participation – how can we ensure that all are treated equally and take part in society?
Common Good/ Rights and Responsibilities – What is ‘true community’? The common good is reached when we work together to improve the wellbeing of people in our society and the wider world. How do we respect all in our community?
Solidarity – Who are our leaders? How do we stand with others? How did Jesus show service and justice? How do we help our neighbour?
Dignity in Work – how do we protect workers and ensure fair wages? How do ensure workers are respected and work for their vocation?
Sharing God’s World, Protecting the Poor and Vulnerable
How do pupils share at home and at school? What are the kinds of things that are shared? Should everyone get exactly the same? Should some people get more? Why? For example, families with more children might need more resources, or someone with a disability might need extra help.
Caring for God’s World
How do I show respect for Creation? The earth and all life on it are part of God’s creation. We are called to respect this gift. We are responsible for taking care of the world we live in and for sharing all the wonders and resources the earth gives us.