There is an active prayer life at St Anthony’s for all pupils of all ages.

Pupils learn and say daily prayers and regularly pray a Morning Offering, Grace Before Meals, Grace after Meals and Evening Offering.

As pupils progress across the Academy they learn a wider range of traditional prayers that they are introduced to at age appropriate times, in line with Diocese expectations. For example, Reception pupils are expected to know how to make the Sign of the Cross, the Our Father and the Hail Mary as well as the 4 daily prayers. By Y6 pupils are learning the Prayer to the Holy Spirit and The Apostles Creed.

We also say our school prayer on a regular basis, based upon the words of our Patron Saint, St Anthony of Padua.

Pupils also use prayer at different times in the liturgical calendar, to reflect upon key events, such as the Stations of the Cross or the Rosary.

Pupils are taught to write prayers from an early age. They are taught the difference between prayers of intercession and prayers of petition. This enables them to turn to prayer when they personally feel that they need to speak to God. Pupils can make use of the Prayer Garden in school to do this.

Teachers also focus on themes alongside prayer. These may depend on the time of year, such as a focus on Our Lady in May. They also take the opportunity to refer to current affairs – to support pupils in making sense of events that may lead them to be anxious. The Diocese weekly theme is also a shared focus.

We encourage parents to continue the prayer life of their children at home. Please use the prayers, prayer bags and ask should you like further ideas to use at home.