Building the Kingdom: Option for the Poor & Vulnerable
This half term, we focus on the Catholic Social Teaching principle of Option for the Poor and Vulnerable, which reminds us that a fair and just society cares for those most in need. We are called to notice inequality and respond with compassion, ensuring that everyone has what they need to live with dignity. This theme challenges us to think about how we can share our blessings and make choices that put the needs of the most vulnerable first.
Spiritual Foundation
Our learning is rooted in the Gospel message and the belief that every person is precious to God.
Jesus teaches:
“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40)
Pope Francis reminds us:
“The poor are at the heart of the Gospel. We cannot remain indifferent to their cry.”
This principle calls us to act with justice and love, not simply offering charity but working to create fairness. Through scripture, prayer, and reflection, pupils will explore how helping others reflects God’s love and builds a community where everyone feels valued and supported.
Whole-School Virtues
For the second half of the spring term, we focus on the Jesuit virtues of Intentional & Prophetic:
Pupils in our school are growing to be . . .
Intentional in how they live and use the resources of the earth, guided by conscience and aware of how their choices impact others.
Prophetic in the example they set, speaking and acting with courage to highlight what is right, fair and compassionate.
These virtues will encourage pupils to:
Think carefully about how their actions can support those who are vulnerable.
Use their voices and choices to promote justice and fairness in everyday life.
Living Our Community Spirit
Our commitment to caring for the poor and vulnerable will be explored through key events and reflections this term:
Throughout this half term, pupils will explore how their learning and actions can support the poor and vulnerable through key school events:
British Science Week – UNCRC Article 29
Children engage with science to understand how innovation, responsibility and care for creation can help improve life for communities who lack clean water, sustainable food sources or fair access to resources.
World Book Day – UNCRC Articles 17 & 31
We celebrate stories that open our eyes to the experiences of others, including those living in poverty or crisis. Pupils consider how reading builds empathy and helps us understand what fairness looks like in different parts of the world.
Lent – UNCRC Article 14
Across the school, children take part in age‑appropriate Lent charity actions, focusing on prayer, giving and sacrifice. Each year group supports a cause linked to our call to care for the poor and vulnerable.
Holy Week – UNCRC Article 14
During Holy Week, pupils reflect on Jesus’ self‑giving love and what it teaches us about standing alongside those who suffer. Through prayer and liturgy, children consider how we can bring hope to others through our words and actions.
Through scripture, prayer, and creative activities, pupils deepen their understanding of what it means to help others and build a fairer world, inspired by Catholic Social Teaching.
See below for our Curriculum Maps: