Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College is a vibrant college that nurtures individual talent and respect for others. With our faith in Jesus, we are kind, work hard and develop our whole self. Together, we make a difference.

Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College is a special place and is first and foremost a Catholic school, guided by Gospel values. We recognise everyone as being made ‘in God’s image and likeness’ and, as such, everyone, regardless of their own faith perspective, is welcomed and valued for who they are. 

 Catholic Life and Mission – Key Aims

• Christ-Centred Education - We place Jesus Christ at the heart of all learning, guiding students to grow in faith, knowledge, and love.

• Spiritual Formation -  We foster personal relationships with God through prayer, worship, and reflection, helping students discern their vocation and live with purpose.

• Gospel Values in Action - We promote virtues like compassion, justice, forgiveness, and service—encouraging students to live out their faith in daily life.

• Inclusive Community - We create a welcoming environment where every individual feels valued, safe, and supported—regardless of background or ability.

• Academic Excellence Rooted in Faith - We deliver high-quality teaching that inspires awe and wonder, while nurturing curiosity and resilience.

• Catholic Social Teaching - We instil principles such as human dignity, solidarity, option for the poor and creation and environment—empowering students to help make a change.

• Parish and Family Partnership - We strengthen ties between college, parish, and families to build a united faith community.

• Creation and Environment Ambassadors - We encourage care for creation in the spirit of Laudato Si’, promoting sustainability and ecological awareness.

 

 Catholic Life and Mission – implementation

 Embedding Faith in Daily Practice

• Visible Signs of Faith - We ensure classrooms and communal spaces reflect our Catholic identity—crucifixes, prayer shleves, seasonal displays, and scripture quotes.

• Prayer and Worship - We have established a consistent cycle of prayer: daily classroom prayers, Celebration of the Word and termly Masses. We always involve the students in planning and leading the Masses. 

• Mission-Driven Curriculum - We integrate Gospel values across subjects. We use CAFOD and Caritas resources to teach Catholic Social Teaching through real-world issues.

 Living the Mission Through Action

• Charitable Outreach - We plan regular fundraising and service projects - We do Caritas collections, CAFOD Lent appeals, and local community support for the local foodbanks.

• Student Leadership - Our students across the whole college have the opportunity to develop their whole selves and become involved in student leadership which is an essential part of our culture at Blessed Thomas Holford. It lies at the heart of building a sense of community and family at college, whilst helping drive college improvement. It allows our students the opportunity to take responsibility and monitor the impact of their actions and ideas. Our students work hard to make a difference to their own lives and to the lives of others in line with the key principles of our Catholic social teachings of solidarity, dignity of the person and working for the common good. Our student ambassadors are kind and take the lead on our charity and fundraising across the college. Participating in one or more of these opportunities allows our students to develop key leadership skills and qualities that can be applied to their future college, university, apprenticeship or career aspirations.

• Inclusive Celebrations - We celebrate feast days, cultural diversity, and achievements in ways that reflect the dignity and worth of every child.

• Parish Partnerships - We strengthen ties with our parish through shared liturgies, sacramental preparation, and joint community events.

the impact of our catholic life and mission

Spiritual and Personal Growth

• Faith becomes lived experience - Students don’t just learn about Gospel values—they embody them through prayer, reflection, and action.

• Moral development is strengthened - Students grow in virtues like compassion, integrity, and courage, guiding their choices in and beyond college.

• Sense of purpose and identity - Children begin to understand their unique vocation and place in God’s plan, fostering confidence and self-worth.

College Culture and Community

• Mission-driven ethos - The college’s values permeate everything—from curriculum to behaviour policies—creating a consistent, nurturing environment.

• Inclusive belonging - Every child feels seen and valued, regardless of background, because the mission celebrates dignity and diversity.

 Wider Social and Global Impact

• Catholic Social Teaching in action - Students engage with issues like poverty, climate justice, and human rights—becoming ambassadors of change.

• Community outreach and charity - Fundraising, volunteering, and partnerships with local organisations reflect the college’s commitment to service.

• Parish and family engagement - Strong ties with families and parishes reinforce faith at home and in the wider community.