School Chaplaincy

"Dear young people, let us not be satisfied with a mediocre life. Be amazed by what is true and beautiful, what is of God!”

 – Pope Francis

The Salesian Academy of St John Bosco is part of wider Salesian community in the UK and around the world. Built on the strong Catholic Salesian tradition and the educative system of St John Bosco we focus on the development of every child. Saint John Bosco based his model of education on the Preventive System, calling the young people to be “good Christians and honest citizens”. Our school, inspired by our founder, is a place to belong, to learn, to reflect and to celebrate.

What we do:

Chaplaincy is led by a team of staff in school and supported by the wider school community. Our Chaplain Fr J Ruzniak SDB is in school every day and is available to staff and pupils. Members of the Salesian community, regularly visit our school to partake in both prayer and social events as well as supporting with learning and sports activities. Our chaplaincy team, offer a variety of opportunities for our young people to grow in their faith, including:

Pastoral and spiritual support

Pastoral and spiritual care in the school is highly valued and pupils have access to different services. There is always someone to help and support, especially at times of crisis. Besides the care they receive from teachers and year teams, the Chaplaincy space is accessible to all pupils for an informal chat or a quiet word if needed. Following the spirit of St John Bosco, the chaplaincy is also a social space, it is a space were all are welcome, all are respected, and all are listened too. At break and lunchtimes, pupils and staff enjoy playing cards and board games, socialising together, and sharing stories of the day within this area.

Celebration of the Sacraments

Chaplaincy is at the heart of the prayer life of our school, prayer and reflection is important to our community. All pupils have the opportunity to attend the celebration of Holy Mass weekly and on special occasions throughout the year.

Liturgical Ministry

We encourage all to take a full and active role in the preparation of the prayer life of the school.

Retreat Programme and Trips

Pupils of our school have the opportunity to take part in out of school activities and have a chance to visit the Salesian residential retreat centre. It is a most valuable and enjoyable time for pupils and staff who accompany them. They spend time getting to know each other and themselves a little better, as well as exploring their relationship with God. They do this through team building, reflection, prayer, and having fun. Pupils also have the opportunity to access national Salesian events.

Weekly reflections for staff include: