The Sacraments are an important part of the faith journey of our children and their families. As a Catholic school, we work closely with our parish, families and the wider Church community to support children as they prepare to receive the Sacraments.
Children in Year 3 prepare to receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion, while children in Year 6 prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.

A Partnership Between School, Parish and Home
Following the introduction of the new Religious Education Directory, sacramental preparation is distinct from the Religious Education curriculum taught in school. The main preparation for receiving the Sacraments is led by our parish. Children and their families will therefore be invited to attend preparation sessions at the parish church, where they will be supported by the parish priest and parish community as they prepare to take these
important steps in their faith journey.

School works alongside the parish by providing additional opportunities for children to pray, reflect and deepen their understanding of the Sacraments.

Preparation in School
In school, children take part in six dedicated 20-minute sessions for each Sacrament.

Year 3 children complete:
● six sessions in preparation for Reconciliation
● six sessions in preparation for First Holy Communion

Year 6 children complete:
● six sessions in preparation for Confirmation

These short sessions have a strong focus on Scripture, prayer and reflection and are designed to support and complement the preparation taking place within the parish.
Each session follows the same structure:
Unlock the Theme – introducing the focus of the session and connecting it with the children's
experiences.
Introduce the Direct Knowledge Statement – making clear the key Catholic knowledge the
children will develop.

Proclaim Scripture – listening to and reflecting upon the Word of God.
Discussion – giving children opportunities to talk, question and deepen their understanding.
Quick Activity – completing a short activity linked to the focus of the session.
Ending Prayer – bringing the learning before God through prayer and reflection.

At the end of each session, the children repeat the direct knowledge statement together, helping them to remember and articulate the key teaching.

Growing in Faith Together
Sacramental preparation is more than preparation for a single celebration. It is part of each
child's continuing journey of faith. Through the partnership between home, school and parish, we aim to help children understand the Sacraments they are receiving, encounter Christ through Scripture and prayer, and
recognise their growing place within the life of the Church. Families play an essential role in this journey and are encouraged to participate fully in the preparation and celebration of the Sacraments within our parish community.

Further information can be found on the Parish website:

Holy Cross & St Francis – Catholic Parish (hcsf.org.uk)