During this year’s Season of Creation, we are highlighting Good News Stories from our communities around the diocese, exploring what ecological approaches can be taken to attend to the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.

St Thomas More High School in Westcliff was awarded CAFOD’s LiveSimply Award through dedicating itself to collectively living simply, sustainably and in solidarity with the wider community. Inspired by the launch of the Laudato Si’ Invitations, Commitments and Actions in 2022, the school took on the challenge of putting their faith into action.

Before receiving the award in 2024, the school developed a nine-point plan based on seven principles of Catholic Social Teaching. Their plan was:

  • Engage in outreach work with local primary schools and care homes
  • Introduce guided meditation in the chapel
  • Raise funds for CAFOD World Gifts
  • Transition to an eco-friendly energy supplier
  • Support the SVP Food Bank in Southend through donations and volunteering
  • Plant fruit trees and vegetables in the school garden
  • Create an outdoor Stations of the Cross for prayer and RE lessons

In recognition of the hard work from students and staff involved, Bishop Alan Williams came to the school to present the award to the school’s CAFOD student leaders, Mrs McKenna – who led on the project – and Mrs Ackred, Headteacher of St Thomas More’s.

Having received the award, Mrs Ackred said:

“We are incredibly proud of our students and staff for their unwavering commitment to living out our faith in tangible ways. The LiveSimply Award is not just a recognition of our efforts but a call to continue making a difference in our community and beyond.”

Siobhan from CAFOD’s LiveSimply team congratulated the school:

“Congratulations to the pupils and staff on achieving the LiveSimply award. Their actions are wonderful examples of caring for others and our common home and we wish them well as they continue to live simply, sustainably and in solidarity with communities around the world experiencing poverty.”

Has your school achieved the Live Simply award? What was your experience like?

Does your school have a good news story to share with Caritas Brentwood? Get in touch with us [email protected].