We are proud to be part of the first UK group to have had the honour of meeting Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on 25th of June 2025.

The visit marks a significant moment in the journey of an initiative around “Called to Action”, a toolkit launched in 2024 to support Catholic schools and colleges in living out the principles of Catholic Social Teaching through community organising. The toolkit, developed by Citizens UK in partnership with Catholic school organisers from member institutions, aims to place the dignity of the human person, solidarity, and the common good at the heart of Catholic education in a practical and lived-out sense.

The journey to this meeting began 18 months ago, when the organisers began planning the initial conference and toolkit launch. The group decided to approach Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, who was attending, with an “ask”. It was a hope and a dream to establish a dialogue with the Holy Father.

Andy Lewis, our deputy headteacher, said: “This meeting is a powerful endorsement of our work in Catholic schools. To hear our actions affirmed at the highest level of the Church was deeply moving and a testament to what is possible when Catholic Social Teaching is not only taught, but lived. It was a day we will never forget.”

The group’s time in Rome also included visits to significant Catholic churches and basilicas, including the tomb of Pope Francis. It made the pilgrimage a spiritually rich and memorable experience, as true pilgrims in the Jubilee Year. The days were termed a “Summit of Hope” as organisers met and shared stories and ideas.

Three students from St Bonaventure’s School, have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to the community and good citizenship at the 2025 Brentwood Catholic Schools Good Citizenship Awards. The awards were presented by The Rt Rev Bishop Alan Williams SM, Bishop of Brentwood.

The award recipients: Zariel (Year 7), Quincy (Year 10), and Ajay (Year 12), come from different year groups but share a strong sense of kindness, resilience, and care for those around them, both in school and in the wider community.

Zariel, a Year 7 student, has been part of St Bonaventure’s for just under one year, yet he already exemplifies the school’s core values in an exceptional way. He has shown remarkable courage, emotional maturity, and a strong sense of empathy. Zariel is especially known for his compassion, consistently going out of his way to support fellow students during lessons in various subjects. His kindness, patience, and quiet humility have not only uplifted those around him but have also made a lasting impression on staff and peers alike.

Quincy, in Year 10, lives out all seven of the school’s core virtues: Faith, Hope, Charity, Integrity, Courage, Humility, and Kinship. He is caring and supportive to friends and family alike, and his positive attitude and dedication to his studies are truly inspiring. Always respectful and polite, Quincy is a role model to his peers and a source of pride for the entire school community.

Ajay, a Year 12 student, is recognised for his passion for learning and his determination to succeed. He is a resilient and hardworking student who never fails to encourage others. Ajay’s positive outlook, loyalty, and consistent support for his peers make him an invaluable member of the school community.