Teaching in a Catholic School: A Personal Reflection
Having just attended Mass on Catechetical Sunday, I’ve been reminded of the deeper sense of purpose that comes with teaching in a Catholic school. That morning, our teaching staff, along with volunteer Catechists, were commissioned for service for the academic year ahead. It wasn’t just a formal occasion – it was a moment that reaffirmed the connection we have, not only with our students but also with each other as a community. The lunch that followed, organised by Father Naveen and the parish staff, was a true reflection of this bond. We gathered in the school canteen, not just as colleagues, but as part of the St. Ignatius family.
Teaching in a Catholic school brings that extra dimension, which is more than just delivering lessons. It’s about being part of something larger, where faith and education intertwine to shape the whole person – spiritually, emotionally, and academically. The ethos of care, support, and community is something you feel deeply every day, whether you’re Catholic or not.
Not at all. Many of my colleagues, myself included, come from diverse backgrounds. With only 51% of teachers identifying as Catholic, there’s a wide mix of faiths among the staff. What unites us isn’t religion, but a shared commitment to the school’s mission – to nurture and guide the next generation. As long as you can respect the ethos and lead prayers, the doors are open to all.
Working here, you quickly realise that it’s not just about academics. The Catholic ethos creates a tight-knit community focused on the whole person – students and staff alike. I recently experienced this when we gathered for a birthday celebration at Seven Mile Beach. It was a moment that made me truly appreciate the beauty of our surroundings and the deeper connections we share with each other. In those moments, you realise it’s not about the things we have but the people we are blessed to be surrounded by.
The key difference is the sense of community and the integration of faith into everyday life. We follow the national curriculum like other schools, but religious education is delivered through a Catholic lens. There are regular prayers, Mass, and involvement with the local parish, which gives the school a unique character. Our large catchment area also brings together students from all walks of life, creating a diverse and inclusive environment.
For me, the biggest benefit is the sense of purpose and community. Being part of this school goes beyond teaching – it’s about contributing to a shared mission. The pastoral care here is phenomenal, for both students and staff. After Catechetical Sunday, I felt a renewed sense of being supported and valued, and that’s something you don’t find everywhere. Working in such an environment fosters personal growth, both as an educator and an individual.
Like any other school, the basic requirements apply: QTS or a PGCE. However, having the Catholic Certificate in Religious Studies (CCRS) can be a bonus, as it reflects a deeper understanding of the school’s ethos. But it’s not a must-have for most teaching roles.
Some leadership roles, such as Headteacher, do require the individual to be a practising Catholic. These positions carry the responsibility of guiding the spiritual life of the school, which is why faith is a key requirement.
Reflecting on my recent experiences, from Mass on Catechetical Sunday to our gathering at Seven Mile Beach, I’m reminded how teaching in a Catholic school isn’t just about the curriculum. It’s about being part of a community that cares deeply for one another. Whether you’re Catholic or not, this sense of shared purpose and connection makes teaching here a truly rewarding experience.