A Catholic school is more than just a school that practices a particular religion. A Catholic school provides an education in the spirit of the gospel of Jesus. Holy Family College maintains a set of lived values and attitudes which influence all aspects of the school’s life. These values are called Gospel values, based on the example given to us by Jesus, which include compassion for others, ecumenism and inclusion of the other, and the pursuit of personal integrity and social justice through the development of servant leaders. As a Catholic school, Holy Family College provides a vibrant Religious Education programme that develops in pupils not only an understanding of and respect for Catholicism but for all religions and for the role that all religions play in the development of one’s spirituality and relationship with God. While all pupils of Holy Family College attend mass, those who wish to can extend their faith by becoming initiated into the Catholic sacraments of baptism, reconciliation, communion and confirmation.
The Catholic ethos entails the development of the spiritual capacity for faith, hope and love. It also requires the upholding of the dignity of the human person, of all beings, and of all creation, with a special concern for the poor and the marginalised. Outreach to others, pastoral care for all, and celebration of the school’s religious character are of the essence of this ethos. As such, the College strives to prepare pupils to take their place in society as responsible, honest and compassionate citizens. While classroom teaching is compliant with the objectives of the National Curriculum, the search for excellence and depth in teaching and learning is shaped by Gospel values. This means that all curriculum areas are integrated in a meaningful way and infused with these Gospel values.
Restorative justice began formally in New Zealand’s criminal justice system when, Maori elders sought a solution to their social challenges, one which would help those harmed and make the perpetrators face the consequences of their actions. Restorative justice focuses on mediation and agreement rather than punishment. The primary aim of any restorative process is for a positive outcome for all parties, where individuals understand the harm they have caused and have been given the chance to put right that harm, as opposed to condemning, punishing and excluding individuals.
In schools, the restorative approach removes the climate of fear that negatively affects teaching and learning and encourages the development of self-awareness and self-discipline. It works by strengthening relationships and managing conflict through repairing harm and building community. It brings safety, hope and dignity to all members of the school community. The lessons that the young people of Holy Family learn through restorative justice allow them to move into the world as confident, empowered and well-rounded young people, freed from the anger, violence and fear that pervades our country.
