Catholic Social Teaching, Virtues and Saints

At St Joseph's, our Catholic faith inspires everything we do. Through Catholic Social Teaching, we help our children understand how they can follow Jesus' example by living out Gospel values and making a positive difference in the world. Each half term, we focus on a different CST theme, linked with virtues and the lives of inspiring saints who model these values in action.

Advent 1: Participation & Dignity of Work

Virtues: Service and Responsibility
Saints: St Joseph and St Teresa of Calcutta

We believe that every person has unique gifts to share and an important role within our school, parish and wider community. Children are encouraged to serve others, take responsibility for their actions and use their talents to contribute positively to the world around them.

Advent 2: Human Dignity

Virtues: Respect and Compassion
Saints: St Josephine Bakhita and St Martin de Porres

Every person is created in the image and likeness of God and deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and kindness. We encourage our children to celebrate diversity, show compassion and value the uniqueness of every individual.

Lent 1: Rights and Responsibilities

Virtues: Justice and Integrity
Saint: St Thomas More

We teach children that every person has rights given by God, but with those rights come responsibilities towards others. Our pupils learn the importance of fairness, honesty and standing up for what is right.

Lent 2: Care for God's Creation

Virtues: Stewardship and Gratitude
Saint: St Francis of Assisi

God has entrusted us with the care of our common home. We encourage children to appreciate the beauty of creation, develop gratitude for God's gifts and take practical steps to protect the environment.

Pentecost 1: Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

Virtues: Generosity and Kindness
Saint: St Vincent de Paul

Following Jesus' example, we are called to care for those most in need. Through fundraising, charitable outreach and acts of service, our children learn the importance of generosity, kindness and compassion.

Pentecost 2: Solidarity and Peace

Virtues: Courage and Friendship
Saint: St Oscar Romero

We are all part of one global family. Our children learn to build peaceful relationships, stand in solidarity with others and work together to promote justice and peace.