Catholic Ethos and Mission
Saint Bede’s is first and foremost a Catholic school, and we are guided by our Mission Statement in all that we do:
“We aim to reflect the true Christian Values proclaimed in the Gospel, and seek to provide a caring community in which young people can grow as balanced individuals, morally, intellectually and spiritually and so participate fully in the real world”.
Being a Bede
At our school, our ethos is underpinned by what we call the BEDE acronym. A pupil knows they are a BEDE when they display and strive towards the characteristics of Behaviour, Engagement, Devotion and Excellence. These values shape everything we do and guide our pupils to grow academically, spiritually and personally, both within our school community and beyond.
Behaviour
Excellent behaviour is the foundation of our success. We show respect for ourselves, others and our school environment. We always behave exceptionally well because this is for our own good and the common good. The way we wear our uniform and badges with pride is an outward statement of our shared values.
Engagement
We have a proactive and positive approach towards all aspects of learning, both inside and outside of the classroom. Engagement is about showing determination and resilience. We are always willing to make an effort and push boundaries when it comes to learning new things.
Devotion
We are a caring community devoted to our faith and the St Bede’s family. We are committed to following Christ’s example and living out the Gospel values. We are proud to be part of a Catholic community working towards holiness.
Excellence
We aim to achieve excellence through our behaviour, engagement in all learning, and devotion to our beliefs. We firmly believe that everyone can make a positive contribution to our school, the community and wider society. We are ambitious and aim to be the very best we can be.
Mission Week
Every year, our school takes part in a Mission Week. This week is dedicated to re-centring ourselves on our mission and living in imitation of Christ. It is centred on prayer, and during this time we intensify our efforts in prayer as we ask our Heavenly Father to continue guiding and supporting us as we strive to live out the ideals of our mission statement and our Catholic calling.
Mission Week provides an opportunity to reflect on our vocation and to support local, national and international charitable causes. These include the St Matthew Fund, our school fund, Mary’s Meals, Aid to the Church in Need, and many other causes that enable us to live out our ethos and respond to our call to perform the corporal works of mercy.
All pupils participate in charitable activities and embrace their individual and collective responsibility to share God’s love through the way we live.