At St Elizabeth’s Catholic Voluntary Academy, our mission is clear and rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ: “Be like Jesus, Be our best, Be safe and Be caring.” This mission, reviewed and embraced by our school community, calls each of us to reflect the love and example of Jesus in all that we do. Through our words and actions, we strive to create a nurturing and inspiring environment where every child can grow in faith, knowledge, and virtue.
As a Catholic school, we are dedicated to the Church’s mission in education, which seeks to transform individuals so that they, in turn, may help to transform society. Jesus teaches us in the Gospel of John: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). This fullness of life is what we aspire to provide for every pupil—a journey of spiritual, intellectual, and moral growth so that they may flourish and serve the world with love.
In addition to our mission statement, we have been reflecting, over a number of years, on our rich Franciscan heritage. With the guidance and support of the Franciscan Sisters Minoress, we have embraced and embedded seven core Franciscan values within our school community: joy, forgiveness, faith, respect, service, peace, and stewardship. These values shape our ethos and are a daily inspiration for our pupils and staff.
Each pupil is encouraged to live out these values in their everyday actions, but to deepen their understanding, each class has a specific focus value to learn about and embody throughout the year. By striving to live these values, pupils cultivate virtues that shape their character and help them to become responsible, compassionate members of society. To celebrate their commitment to these values, pupils are recognised and awarded for demonstrating them in their daily lives, reinforcing the importance of following the teaching and example of Jesus.
As Jesus reminds us in the Gospel of Matthew: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). At St Elizabeth’s, we take this to heart, encouraging our pupils to use their gifts and virtues to bring light to others. Our school community is dedicated to service, with pupils enthusiastically accepting their responsibility to care for others, support one another, and reach out to those in need.
Through faith, love, and a commitment to Gospel values, we work together to build a school where every child feels safe, valued, and inspired to be the very best they can be. With Christ as our guide, and Saints Francis of Assisi and Elizabeth of Hungary as our examples, we continue on this joyful journey of faith and learning, seeking to make a positive difference in the world around us.
