Prayer & Worship
Daily prayer at the heart of school life
At St Richard’s, prayer and liturgy are central to who we are as a Catholic community. Our faith shapes the rhythm of each day and brings us together in reflection, gratitude and celebration.
Daily Prayer
Every day, pupils and staff take part in collective prayer. Prayer takes place during registration, before lunch and at the end of the school day.
Daily prayer is supported by digital resources prepared by our Lay Chaplain, and pupils are
encouraged to take an active role in leading and developing this time of reflection.
Each Friday morning, pupils gather in the Chapel before school for Morning Prayer of the
Church.
“I love the part that prayer plays every day.”
Assemblies and Reflection
Assemblies are rooted in Catholic teaching and take place weekly for each year group, with
additional Upper and Lower School assemblies throughout the term.
Every form prepares and leads an assembly during the year. This helps pupils to grow in
confidence and leadership, and to reflect more deeply on faith and values.
Mass and the Liturgical Year
The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is celebrated at the beginning of each term and on High and
Holy Days.
Each form also takes part in a Mass or Celebration of the Word in the Chapel during the year. Our annual Advent Service and Mass of Thanksgiving for Grandparents are important moments in the College’s liturgical calendar and are open to the wider community.
Music plays an important part in our liturgies, with pupils actively involved in singing and
playing instruments.
The Sacraments and the Chapel
Pupils have the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation during Advent and
Lent, with the sacrament also available on request throughout the year.
The Chapel is open during break and lunchtime, offering a quiet space for prayer and
reflection. Pupils may also take part in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament each week.
“The chapel is a fabulous and well used focal point for prayer and liturgy at the school.”
Through these opportunities, we support pupils in developing a mature spiritual life and an active participation in the life of the Church.
Prayer and worship are closely connected with the learning pupils experience in Religious Education and the work of the chaplaincy team.
For full details, please refer to our Prayer & Liturgy Policy in the Statutory Information & Policies section of this website.