Introduction

Welcome to Chaplaincy

Choosing a Catholic education for your child is an important decision. It reflects your desire for the values, teachings, and traditions of the Catholic Church to play a central role in their education and personal development.

At St Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic High School, our Catholic ethos is at the heart of everything we do. It is not simply one aspect of school life—it is the foundation upon which our learning, relationships, and pastoral care are built. We are committed to nurturing every young person academically, spiritually, morally, and emotionally, helping them to grow into compassionate, confident, and responsible members of society.

As Pope St John Paul II said:

"Religious Education is the core of the core curriculum in a Catholic school."

This belief underpins our commitment to Religious Education. All students study Religious Education from Year 7 to Year 11, culminating in GCSE Religious Studies at Key Stage 4. Through these lessons, students deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith while exploring important moral, ethical, and philosophical questions that help prepare them for life in the modern world.

Faith is lived as well as learned at St Edmund Arrowsmith. Alongside the RE curriculum, students are offered many opportunities to develop their faith and spirituality through:

Daily prayer in form time
Celebration of the Word and weekly assemblies
Year group and whole-school Masses and liturgical celebrations
Services and celebrations in partnership with our local parish communities of St Oswald's & St Edmund Arrowsmith, Our Lady's, and St Wilfrid's
Retreats, reflection opportunities, and seasonal liturgies
Charity work, fundraising, and acts of service
Chaplaincy and Faith in Action groups that encourage students to put their faith into action by serving others and making a positive difference in our local and wider community.

Our Chaplaincy team provides a welcoming presence within the school, offering pastoral support, opportunities for prayer and reflection, and helping every member of our community to grow in faith, hope, and love.

We hope this section of our website gives you an insight into the vibrant faith life of our school. If you would like any further information or wish to get in touch, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Chaplaincy Team

School Chaplain
Mrs Maria Ruane (Currently on Maternity Leave)

School Chaplain (Maternity Cover)
Mr W Smith
Email: wsmith@arrowsmith.wigan.sch.uk

Head of Religious Education
Mrs Emma Hooton
Email: ehooton@arrowsmith.wigan.sch.uk