Mission Statement
"Following Christ we reach our goals."

Catholic Social Teaching at St Edward’s

Catholic Social Teaching is founded in Scripture and includes statements and letters written by Church leaders. It offers wisdom and insights on living the Gospel in today’s world. At the heart of Catholic Social Teaching is the profound belief in the dignity and the equality of every human person. Every individual is lovingly and beautifully made in the image and likeness of God. Because of this, every person is of value and deserves to be treated with respect, compassion and justice.

Pupils at St Edward’s Catholic Primary School have been learning and practicing Catholic Social Teaching. Their faith calls them to love God and to love their neighbours, especially their sisters and brothers who are in need. Following in the footsteps of Christ our pupils believe that everyone has the power to contribute to making our world a better place for all.

Pope Francis emphasises that it is our duty to work together to bring about a more just and peaceful world: to put love into action. It is vital that our children can articulate the connection between Jesus' teaching and doing good deeds. We use the CAFOD Catholic Social Teaching resources and the animal mascots to support the children’s understanding of principles.

The animal mascots are used with EYFS, KS1 and KS2.

St Edward’s Catholic Social Teaching Journey Map

Assemblies on Catholic Social Teaching

CST Song

Pupils have learnt the CST song and sing it as part of hymn practice and collective worship.  

An example of Catholic Social Teaching in Action:
The Commonwealth Choir and Catholic Social Teaching

On the evening of Monday 11th May 2026, pupils from St Edward’s were delighted to perform at the Charlton Club in Mayfair (London) as part of the Commonwealth Choir. Our children were invited to attend the launch of the ‘Pupil Parliament’ in honour of the late Sir David Amess. The Carlton Club were very impressed with our children and informed us that it was the first time that children had been invited in since its establishment 150 years ago.

In the Bible Jesus says,

"Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these"

(Matthew 19:14).

As part of the children’s Catholic Social Teaching, they understand that Patariki represents ‘Participation’ and that the core principles are:

• The Right and Duty: Patariki teaches that everyone has both the right and the responsibility to fully participate in society and their local community. St Edward’s pupils joined a community that previously excluded children.
• Inclusion: The mascot reminds children to make sure no one is left out, enabling all people to share their unique voices and gifts. Our pupils used their singing voices as an instrument of peace.
• Valuing All Work: It highlights that every individual's contribution and work is a vital piece of building up a supportive community.

Our pupils understand that Daisy the Dove represents ‘Being Peacemakers’ and that the core principles are:

Our pupils understand that Daisy the Dove represents ‘Being Peacemakers’ and that the core principles are:

• Active Peace-making: Peace is not just the absence of war, but a daily action rooted in love, understanding, and justice. Our Commonwealth choir and our St Edward’s Pupil Parliament team are both united as part of a bigger Newham Pupil Parliament honouring Sir David Amess who died as a result of terrorism.
• Daily Kindness: Our Commonwealth Choir sing beautiful songs/hymns and speak kind words to build up the self-esteem of those around them.
• Conflict Resolution: Teaches children how to handle arguments through a spirit of love, forgiveness, and welcoming others.
• Perseverance: Reminds children that working for a peaceful world can be challenging, but they must never give up, hence their on-going involvement in this project.