Following in Our Faith

Our Catholic Life, Mission and Aims

Through our school mission day we have we have developed a Mission in Action Statement which brings together our School Mission Statement and School Virtues:

Inspired by the scripture: 

"Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” 

Matthew 4:19

Our Mission Statement is: 

‘Following in the footsteps of Jesus: having fun learning, achieving and loving together.'

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This is a familiar statement to the children at St Joseph’s, which alongside our school virtues, underpins everything that we do.​

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We read and explore the Word of God to understand how Jesus wants us to live our lives.  This scripture gives us examples which we apply to our own lives so that we follow in Jesus' footsteps in all that we do.​

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• We learn by taking every opportunity we are given, showing patience and self-control just as Jesus did throughout his life. ​

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• We achieve by finding joy and thankfulness in all we do; showing simplicity so we know what really matters in life. ​

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• We love by having empathy for the challenges others face, showing hospitality in our welcome and serving our brothers and sisters in Christ. 

Our Aims

At St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, we serve the children and families of the Parish of St Margaret Clitherow across Belle Isle and Hunslet. We provide a safe, happy, and caring environment where every child is valued, nurtured, and encouraged to reach their full potential—spiritually, morally, intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically.

We support our children in developing the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in their community and in life. Through both Catholic virtues and our own school virtues, which underpin our mission statement, we help children grow in self-respect, confidence, responsibility, and care for others and God’s creation, while deepening their love of God and one another.

Religious Education at St Joseph’s follows Catholic teaching and tradition, guiding each pupil to become a committed member of the Church and a responsible, compassionate citizen.

Rooted in Christ, who is at the centre of all we do, our school life is inspired by Christ at the Centre, a reflection by the Bishops of England and Wales. It reminds every child that Jesus is present in all they do, helping them to live each day with faith, love, and purpose.

Our Virtues and the Religious Life of our School

At St Joseph’s, the Catholicity of our school is central to everything we do. By intentionally creating an environment that reflects our faith through prayer, sacred spaces, symbols, and acts of kindness we aim to glorify God in every corner of the school.

Our immersive, faith-filled atmosphere allows children to encounter Christ from the very moment they walk through the school gates, shaping not only their learning but also their hearts.

By living out Gospel values in our daily routines, celebrations, and interactions, we nurture a community where faith is visible, tangible, and experienced in every aspect of school life.

Our Catholic Heritage

Founded in 1862 by a devoted community of nuns, our school has been at the heart of Catholic education in our community for over 160 years. From its earliest days, the school has upheld the values of faith, love, and service—principles that continue to guide our mission today.

Our Catholic heritage is a living part of school life. The story of our founders, the nuns who first opened our doors, is celebrated through our History Display, which beautifully traces our journey from a small parish school to the thriving faith community we are now. Visitors can explore photographs and information of those who helped shape our spiritual and educational traditions.

A special highlight of our display is our new “Popes of Our School’s History”, which shows our school’s life with the papacy of the time. This unique timeline reminds us that our local story is part of the wider story of the Catholic Church — a testament to our enduring faith and commitment to nurturing the minds and hearts of every child in the light of Christ.

Sister Monica Award

Our former Headmistress Sister Monica lovingly served the parish of St Margaret Clitheroe for an incredible 62 years.

She began her journey at St Joseph’s as a dedicated teacher before becoming Headmistress from 1980 to 2003. Sister Monica was known for her deep faith, kindness, and unwavering commitment to nurturing the children in her care.

In 2023, Sister Monica was called home to Jesus after a lifetime of devoted service. To honour her remarkable contribution to both our parish and our school, we present the Sister Monica Award each year to a Year 6 pupil who shows outstanding service to our Catholic faith.

This special award reminds us of Sister Monica’s example to be a beacon of Christ’s light in all we do.

Recipients:

2024 – Ellie Keegan
2025 – Joshua Babatunde-Oginni

Our Blessed Lady's Grotto of Hope

We are delighted to share that our school now has a beautiful new grotto named Our Blessed Lady’s Grotto of Hope — a peaceful place for prayer, reflection, and devotion.

The grotto was blessed by our parish priest, Fr Jude, and our Chair of Governors, Deacon Gerry, in a special ceremony attended by our chaplaincy team.

Following the blessing, our wonderful Faith Leaders led a decade of the Rosary for each class, helping everyone to take part in this special moment of prayer and thanksgiving.

Above Mary stands a graceful canopy, shimmering with over 200 golden stars, one lovingly created by each child in our school. Together, they form a heavenly ceiling that reminds us of Mary, Queen of Heaven, watching over us with her gentle love and protection.

We hope the grotto will be a lasting symbol of faith and hope, and a space where our whole school family can draw closer to God through the loving presence of Our Blessed Lady.

Epiphany Mass

This week, our school community came together to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany. We were delighted to be joined by Fr Jude and our Sisters from next door, whose presence made our liturgy even more special.

During Mass, we were blessed to take part in the traditional Blessing of Epiphany Chalk, led by Fr Jude. Following the blessing, we marked our doors as a sign of God’s protection and welcome for all who enter our school.

The inscription written above our doors  20 ✝ C ✝ M ✝ B ✝ 25  carries a beautiful meaning. It represents Christus Mansionem Benedicat, which means “May Christ bless this house.” It also reminds us of the Three Wise Men, Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar, who followed the star to welcome Jesus into the world.

This joyful celebration was a powerful reminder of our mission to place Christ at the heart of all that we do, as we continue our journey together in faith. 

They saw the star and were filled with great joy.

Matthew 2:10

Advent Mass

We were delighted to welcome Fr Jude and Deacon O’Donnell to St Joseph’s for our Advent Mass on 17 December 2025.

Prior to the celebration of Mass, Fr Jude generously gave our children the opportunity to fulfil their obligation of going to Confession in preparation for Christmas, helping them to ready their hearts for the coming feast.

As is our tradition, the Mass began with the Angelus, grounding us in prayer and reflection. Year 4 then led us beautifully in the hymn Of the Father’s Love Begotten as we reverently built our crib scene, reminding us of the true meaning of Advent and the mystery of the Incarnation.

We concluded by singing a selection of Christmas carols, both old and new, joyfully preparing our hearts for the coming of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. It was a prayerful and uplifting celebration that reflected the deep faith life of our school community.

We thank everyone who attended especially our Parents and Our Sisters next door.

Nothing will be impossible with God.

Luke 1:37

Blessing of the Advent Wreath 

We were delighted to welcome Fr Jude to our school this week as Year 6 led us in the blessing of our Advent wreaths. Each class had worked hard to create their own beautiful wreath, full of colour and symbolism. The Advent wreath, with its evergreen base and four candles, represents hope, peace, joy, and love, guiding us through the season of waiting and preparation for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Fr Jude’s blessing helped us reflect on the meaning of Advent and the importance of preparing our hearts for Christmas. It was a wonderful moment of prayer and community, and we are so proud of the care and creativity our pupils showed in making their wreaths.

Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.

Matthew 3:3

Remembrance Day

Our school community gathered respectfully around the flagpole as Lance Corporal Morgan Kurowski, our special guest from the Royal Engineers, led us in our two minutes’ silence. The moment was marked with great dignity: the Last Post sounded across the playground, and our flag was lowered to half-mast as we remembered all those who have sacrificed their lives in conflict.

We then moved into the hall, where Year 4 led a thoughtful and beautifully prepared assembly. They taught us about the meaning of the poppy and why, as Christians, we choose to honour the dead especially during November, the month of remembrance. Their message reminded us not only to remember those who have fallen but also to continue praying for peace throughout the world.

This is my commandment: love one another, as I have loved you. No one can have greater love than to lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends, if you do what I command you.

John 15:12-13

Saint Carlo Acutis - Computing Suite

We are delighted to announce the opening of our new computer suite, named in honour of Saint Carlo Acutis, the modern-day saint who reminds us that faith and technology can go hand in hand. Carlo, who lived a short life in Italy (1991–2006), used the internet to spread the message of God’s love, creating an online catalogue of Eucharistic miracles around the world.

Known as the patron saint of the internet, Carlo inspires our pupils to use technology responsibly, creatively, and with purpose. The St Carlo Acutis Computer Suite will be a place where children can explore, learn, and develop digital skills, guided by his example of curiosity, dedication, and living their faith in the modern world.

As Carlo once said, “The Eucharist is my highway to Heaven.” In our school, we hope this space will help our pupils navigate the digital world with wisdom, integrity, and faith

Our School House Saints

At our school, every pupil belongs to one of our four Houses: St George, St Andrew, St David or St Patrick. These saints were chosen because they represent the four nations of the United Kingdom, reminding us of the rich heritage, values and traditions that shape Britain today. Each saint is a symbol of courage, faith and service, and we look to their lives as examples of how we can live out our school values.

Throughout the year, we honour each saint on their feast day, taking time to learn about their story, reflect on their virtues and celebrate the House community they inspire.

St Andrew’s Feast Day Celebration

On 28th November, our Year 5 pupils beautifully led our school in a special assembly dedicated to St Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland.

St Andrew was one of the first disciples called by Jesus and is known for his humility, kindness and willingness to share his faith with others.

He is often symbolised by the saltire cross, which appears on the Scottish and Jamaican flag, and his feast day is celebrated on 30th November each year.

Year 5 did a fantastic job presenting his life and legacy. They spoke clearly, confidently and helped us all reflect on what St Andrew can teach us about friendship, bravery and compassion. Their hard work and preparation shone through, and the whole school thoroughly enjoyed the celebration.

Other Faiths - Judaism 

We were delighted to welcome Mr Teeman into our school to teach us about his faith, Judaism. Through discussion, artefacts and hands-on activities, the children learned about Jewish prayer, symbols and daily life.

Mr Teeman taught us about the Jewish festival of Chanukah, which begins on 14 December 2025. Chanukah is known as the Festival of Light and remembers the miracle of the oil. The children learned about the Chanukiah (menorah) and how Jewish families celebrate together.

As a Catholic school, we value our special relationship with the Jewish people. Jews and Christians share belief in one God and look to Abraham as our father in faith.

Faithful love and truth will separate this nation from the failures of the past.

Jeremiah 33:6

Jubilee Year 2025 - Pilgrims of Hope

In 2025, the children of St Joseph’s will join the Catholic world in celebrating the Jubilee Year, a special time called by Pope Francis to renew our faith and become true Pilgrims of Hope. The Jubilee invites all people to journey together in faith, to recognise God’s mercy, and to bring hope to others through love, service, and joy.

As Pilgrims of Hope, our pupils are learning what it means to walk with open hearts — caring for creation, showing kindness to others, and deepening their relationship with God through prayer and action. Through our curriculum, worship, and community projects, we are renewing our commitment to make a difference in the world and to share the light of Christ wherever we go.

We are honoured that the children of St Joseph’s will also take part in this global celebration by attending and singing at the Jubilee Mass at Leeds Cathedral, joining schools and parishes across the diocese in joyful worship. This special event reminds us that we are part of something much bigger — a worldwide Church united in faith, hope, and love.

Together, we walk forward as Pilgrims of Hope, trusting in God’s promise that “those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31), and seeking to build a brighter, more compassionate world for all.

Adoration and Devotion at St Joseph’s

At St Joseph’s, we honour and adore the Blessed Sacrament through quiet reflection, Exposition, and the blessing of Benediction. Our devotion is a time to come before Jesus in the Eucharist, offering prayers of gratitude, love, and reverence.

This sacred tradition reminds our pupils of the beauty and depth of our faith, teaching reverence, awe, and devotion in the presence of God.

As St John Paul II once said, “The Eucharist is the heart of the Church. Where Eucharistic life flourishes, there the life of the Church will blossom.”

We also express our faith through the procession of our statue of Mary, following the example of generations of Catholics in showing honour to Our Lady and drawing closer to her Son.