Liturgies and Worship

"Students' personal development and well-being are good, as are the care, guidance and support they receive. Their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is good, enhanced by the school's Catholic ethos and values. The school assembly seen during the inspection was outstanding, raising awareness of cultural diversity and promoting spiritual reflection and community cohesion. It provided students with an inspirational start to the day." Ofsted comment 2009

Liturgy and prayer:

An essential and central aspect of school life, Liturgy and prayer are celebrated in a wide variety of ways. It is the policy of the school that all meetings or formal gatherings begin with a prayer.

Assemblies:

These are linked to the Sunday Gospel, feasts and celebrations of the Church, or other appropriate themes. These themes are also reflected in classroom prayers provided for each tutor for their daily act of worship.

Liturgies of the Word:

On Ash Wednesday, we celebrate a Liturgy of the Word and distribution of Ashes. Each term concludes with a celebration of God's Word in our lives in a special way:

Autumn: Hamper Liturgy and Service of Light;
Spring: Reflections of Holy Week;
Summer: Celebration of School Year.

These Liturgies include the talents of students and staff in music, drama, multi-media presentations, reading and dance.

Oratory:

This is a focal point for private prayer and is also used for the Friday voluntary Mass and for organised meditations. During the Penitential seasons it is also used for Penitential services for class groups and for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

During Advent and Lent there is opportunity for prayer and reflection led by staff and students.

Chaplain's room: We have a Chaplain's room near the Oratory which is used for private confession or consultation. It is a welcome base for any of our visiting clergy to use as part of our community.

Liturgy Group:

A group of students and staff meet on a regular basis for the planning and promotion of Liturgy in the school. Recent developments in the use of multi-media techniques have had a major impact on our liturgies. Nicholas Breakspear school has gained a reputation for liturgical excellence, rooted in tradition, serving the spiritual needs of our 21st century community.