Religious Education

Nurturing the growth of faith in the child is primarily the right and responsibility of the parents. As a Catholic school we support parents in fulfilling their obligation. 

The school provides religious education for the Catholic children attending the school. 

Throughout the school year religious celebrations take place either in the school or in the greater parish community. The Religious programme followed in our school is Grow in Love.

Each year children in Second Class can involve themselves in the preparation and reception of First Holy Communion and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Children preparing for First Holy Communion partake in a programme called “Do This In Memory”. This is run by parents and members of the parish community.

Currently the Sacrament of Confirmation is administered in St. Kevin’s Parish every second year. This involves children from 5th and 6th classes. During the Confirmation year, children are involved in some of the Sunday Liturgies in St. Kevin’s Church. Pupils preparing for Confirmation partake in the  “You Shall Be My Witness” programme. This is run by parents and members of the parish community.

As a Catholic school, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every child feels welcome, valued and respected in all aspects of school life. We understand that families may have different perspectives on religion and sacramental preparation, so we want to clarify how we approach Religious Education (RE) in a way that honours our school’s ethos while being mindful of all students.

• All children are invited to take part in school-wide celebrations that bring our community together, such as the Christmas Pageant, First Holy Communion, Confirmation and Catholic Schools Week activities, including Grandparents/Senior Friends Day.

• RE curriculum time is ‘banked’ to allow for church practices in the lead-up to sacraments, ensuring that no child misses out on other areas of teaching and learning.

• Children who are not participating in sacramental preparation remain with their class, where they can listen and observe, gaining an understanding of the tradition.

• During this time, they may also engage in quiet activities such as reading, drawing or independent tasks.

• Parents are welcome to provide an independent activity or workbook for their child if they wish.

• Due to space and supervision constraints, children remain in the classroom during these sessions. Our experience has shown that this inclusive approach fosters a positive understanding and respect for different perspectives.

We appreciate the support of all families in ensuring that our school remains a welcoming and respectful place for every child. 

Grow In Love

Grow In Love is designed to be used both in school and at home. It also provides links with the local parish community.

Grow in Love’s Note to Parents 

The programme offers you the opportunity to teach your child about the faith that you chose for them in Baptism. The programme recommends some simple things that you can do at home to help your child in grow in faith:

• Create a Prayer Space in your child’s bedroom using religious articles such as a cross/crucifix, holy water, a candle, etc.

• Place a holy water font at the front door and bless yourself as you leave the house.

• Do acts of kindness with your child, such as donating their good quality toys and clothes to a local charity shop.

• Make the Sign of the Cross when you pass a church.

• Visit the church at a quiet time and chat to your child about what they see.

• Bring your child to Mass.

• Pray simple prayers as the Morning/Night Prayer, Grace Before/After Meals and the Our Father/Hail Mary as a family.

Useful link on Religious Education: diocesan website www.education.dublindiocese.ie