Here at Good Shepherd our students are immersed in the distinct yet complementary dimensions of Religious Education as pictured below:
The relationship between the religious education program and the religious life of the schools in Brisbane Catholic Education is deeply interconnected. The religious education program serves as the academic and intellectual foundation for students, providing them with knowledge about the Catholic tradition and other religious worldviews. This program supports the broader religious life of the school, which encompasses the lived experience of faith through prayer, worship, and social justice activities. Together, they form a comprehensive approach to spiritual development, ensuring that students not only learn about their faith but also live it out in meaningful ways within the school community and beyond.
Religious Education
Religious Education in Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) schools is based on a comprehensive and dynamic program that is an essential part of the holistic development of students. It is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the Catholic faith, encouraging them to explore and grow in their own spirituality.
The BCE Religious Education curriculum is structured around four interrelated strands: Sacred Texts, Beliefs, Church, and Christian Life. These strands are taught in an integrated manner appropriate to our school's specific local contexts. The Religion Curriculum is aligned with the Australian Curriculum and is taught, assessed and reported on in the same way.
Religious Education at Good Shepherd is not just about academic learning; it is about nurturing a living faith that influences students' choices and actions. This aligns with the mission of Catholic education to form individuals who are knowledgeable, responsible, and faith-filled members of society, reinforcing our shared values and goals.
Religious Life of the School
The Religious Life of the School (RLOS) at Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School is a comprehensive and vibrant component that encompasses four interrelated components: Religious Identity and Culture, Evangelisation and Faith Formation, Prayer and Worship, and Social Action and Justice. These components work together to create a holistic religious experience that nurtures the spiritual growth of students and the school community.
Religious Identity and Culture are evident from the moment one enters our school. They are reflected in the physical environment, including the names of our buildings and the interactions within the school community, embodying the ethos and charism of the Catholic faith.
Evangelisation and Faith Formation are at the heart of the RLOS, where our school community is called to live out the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This includes spiritual retreats for different year levels and staff, as well as our connection to the parish.
Prayer and Worship are integral to the life of BCE schools, providing opportunities for students to celebrate their identity and nurture their relationship with God and each other. At Good Shepherd, students actively participate in prayer – be it silent, meditative or traditional. We also come together for school liturgies and whole school masses to celebrate significant events in the Church's calendar. As we have our church onsite, classes attend parish masses on Tuesday mornings.
Social Action and Justice encourages students to put their faith into action, promoting social justice and outreach initiatives that reflect the Gospel values of service and compassion. At Good Shepherd, our community thrives on supporting others both in our community and beyond. We raise funds and support, Caritas through Project Compassion, Catholic Mission, St Vincent de Paul and many others.
The RLOS at Good Shepherd is focused on teaching students to be religious in a particular way as part of their journey of faith and education. It provides a lens through which we can audit and further develop their religious life, ensuring that it is a living faith that influences all aspects of the school's culture.