Faith, dignity and hope at the heart of new all-Ireland framework for Catholic education

Catholic education leaders, school representatives and policymakers gathered at St Mary’s University College, Belfast, for the launch of A Vision for Catholic Schools in Ireland, a new framework designed to articulate and strengthen the shared mission of Catholic schools across the island.

Developed by the Catholic Education Partnership (CEP) and approved by the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference, the Vision provides a common statement of purpose for Catholic schools while recognising the distinctive history, traditions and local contexts of individual school communities.

The framework places the flourishing of the whole person at the centre of school life, bringing together faith formation, educational excellence, inclusion, social responsibility and care for creation.

Welcoming guests to St Mary’s University College, Principal Professor Peter Finn KSG highlighted the enduring relevance of educational provision in Catholic schools helping young people develop academically, personally and spiritually.

Professor Finn said:

“The College warmly welcomes and endorses the new Vision and looks forward to supporting its implementation through our continuing work in teacher education, research, widening participation and engagement with schools and communities.”

Speaking at the launch, Archbishop Eamon Martin emphasised the fundamental belief that underpins Catholic education.

“At the heart of Catholic education is our belief that every child is created in the image and likeness of God, infinitely loved and possessed of a dignity that can never be earned or lost. Our schools seek to help young people discover their gifts, grow in faith and wisdom, and find meaning and purpose in their lives.”

The Vision highlights the importance of strong partnerships between schools, families and communities, while encouraging respect for people of all faith traditions and secular worldviews. It also identifies prayer, reflection, reconciliation, social justice and environmental stewardship as essential elements of Catholic education.

The publication follows an extensive process of consultation and engagement involving educators, school leaders, clergy, parents and education partners from across Ireland.

Fintan Murphy, Chief Executive of the Catholic Schools Trust Service, said:

“This shared Vision gives our schools a clear sense of purpose while honouring the distinctive traditions and circumstances of each school community. It recognises the daily work of

teachers, school leaders, governors and staff who make Catholic education a lived reality for children and families.”

He added:

“It’s call to peace, forgiveness and reconciliation speaks directly to our responsibility to help young people build a more hopeful future together and encourages collaboration across all sectors for the common good.”

Welcoming the launch, Education Minister Paul Givan said:

“I welcome the launch of the new Vision for Catholic schools and the positive contribution it makes to the educational landscape in Northern Ireland. Its focus on excellence, inclusion, wellbeing and opportunity reflects many of the ambitions that underpin my TransformED agenda.”

“Most importantly, it shares a commitment to ensuring that every child and young person is supported to thrive and achieve. I look forward to continuing to work with education partners to deliver the best possible outcomes for children and young people across Northern Ireland.”

Angela Mitchell of Boston College, who helped lead the development process, described the document as “a living compass for the entire school community.”

“Rooted in research, practical experience and the wisdom of our tradition, it provides a shared language to articulate what makes Catholic education distinctive today. It honours our heritage while helping schools respond confidently to the challenges and opportunities of modern life.”

Eamonn Broderick, Chief Executive of the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS), said the launch marked an important milestone for Catholic education.

“It offers a clear statement of our shared mission: to pursue excellence in learning and teaching while nurturing the faith, dignity and potential of every child. Catholic schools across Northern Ireland have a long and proud tradition of combining high standards with a culture of welcome, inclusion and care, and this Vision builds on those foundations.”

Seven themes at the heart of the Vision

The Vision is built around seven key themes that reflect the mission and values of Catholic education:

· Invites a personal relationship with Christ

· Builds a culture of welcome

· Weaves social and environmental justice

· Navigates a changing world

· Nurtures a love of learning

· Shines as part of the wider community

· Dignifies the individual

The Vision is intended to support Catholic schools across Ireland in responding to the challenges of contemporary society while remaining rooted in their mission of faith, learning and service.