St Mary’s Catholic School in Barnard Castle is delighted to announce that it has been officially recognised as a CAFOD Jubilee Pledge School, marking an important milestone in the school’s ongoing commitment to Catholic Social Teaching and global solidarity.
Like many other schools across the country, St Mary’s stepped forward as Pilgrims of Hope, taking part in a transformational journey inspired by the themes of the Jubilee Year. The school community has embraced a wide range of meaningful projects that demonstrate compassion, stewardship, and service.
One of the key initiatives was the school’s community walk, “Striding for Strokes,” which brought pupils and staff together to support others through collective action. St Mary’s has also strengthened its intergenerational relationships, forming close links with local care homes to build connection, understanding, and mutual support within the community.
Environmental responsibility has been another major focus. Pupils formed dedicated litter‑bug teams, working to keep the local area clean and modelling the importance of stewardship of creation. Alongside this, St Mary’s has continued its ongoing donations to local foodbanks and uniform banks, helping families who may be experiencing financial difficulty.
As a CAFOD Jubilee Pledge School, St Mary’s is committed to living out its pledge through everyday actions that make a positive impact. The school recognises that there are many ways to put Catholic Social Teaching into practice, both within the school and throughout the wider community.
St Mary’s remains dedicated to walking alongside its local community, global neighbours, and CAFOD, continuing to act as agents of change. The school proudly pledges to stand in solidarity with the global family and to keep making a difference to the lives of others.