Catholic Social Teaching, Our Core Values and Virtues

Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is rooted in Scripture and formed by the wisdom of Church leaders. It is our moral compass which helps guide us on how to live out our Catholic faith in the world. At St Philomena's the seven principles of Catholic Social Teaching are embedded into the school's work and mission. Catholic Social Teaching can be found in all aspects of our school life: school policies, the curriculum, charity ventures.  We, as God's family, are called to love our neighbours, especially our global neighbours 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.  When students are asked what is Catholic Social Teaching this is their response: The principles of Catholic Social Teaching are embedded in our school curriculum and Catholic Life.  Our ambition is it helps form their Catholic world view.

Human Dignity

Each and every student, their family and staff member is valued as a unique person, made in the image and likeness of God. Students learn about and show respect to one another. Our school values inclusion and our behaviour policy sets out the proactive strategies that all staff use to encourage positive behaviour and support of each student to meet their full potential. Charity fundraising (including CAFOD and Aid to the Church in Need) gives students the opportunity to make a difference to lives of disadvantaged people in the local, national and global community. 

Common Good

We work together, looking beyond our own personal interests, towards building a better future for all. Our Head Girl Team, prayer monitors, House Captains and Student Council make an exemplary contribution to the school community through their work in supporting younger pupils in classroom and on the playground, promoting stewardship, collecting house points, promoting fundraising events such as "Red Wednesday - Aid to the Church in Need, Wear Orange, Macmillan Cake Sale and charitable actions. Pupils are recognised for their personal efforts in contributing to the common good, through house points and certificates.  

Solidarity

We recognise that we are part of one human family and we each have a responsibility to help each person achieve their full potential. Pupils connect with other children from schools in the local area to participate in extra curricular activities including Sutton School Council, delivering drama workshops to Primary school students. We fundraise for local, national and global charities, collect for our Local Food bank and provide a School Shop which is open twice a week and regularly hold a "Swap Shop" where students are able to bring in an item of  clothing, books or accessories and swap for another item.   

Participation

God wants us to get involved with those around us; supporting one another and helping build a better world for all. Ours is a supportive and vibrant school community with many opportunities for pupils, parents and staff to get involved. 

 Option for the poor

We think carefully about people living in poverty and how our choices and actions impact the most vulnerable. We support charities in the local community and consider ways to support families in need. Pupils learn about the disproportionate effect of climate change on vulnerable communities and the economic impact of global warming on poorer nations.  

Stewardship of Creation 

The Earth is God’s gift and all species have a rightful place in it. Humans share this habitat with other creatures and have a special duty as stewards and trustees of the Earth. We take a special pride in our school environment and we treasure the outdoor spaces that are available to us. Our Gardening and Grow your own clubs ensure that the school environment is able to be enjoyed by all and our policies this.