Celebrating St Cuthbert

Today, 20th March, we came together to celebrate the feast day of our patron saint, marking a day filled with prayer, reflection, and community.

Year 10 pupils gathered in the Main Hall for a Holy Mass celebrated by Fr William, which included the blessing of a powerful piece of artwork created by every pupil during LGBTQIA+ Week. The artwork, symbolising unity and brotherhood across the school, was blessed as a reminder of our shared faith and the message that “in the one, we are one.” (Pope Leo XIV's motto). During the Mass, pupils also reflected on the words of ‘For St Cuthbert’ written by former pupil Mgr Kevin Nichols.

Meanwhile, Year 12 students made a pilgrimage to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, following part of St Cuthbert’s Way. Walking in the footsteps of the saint himself, the boys experienced a powerful opportunity for reflection, prayer, and connection with the rich spiritual heritage of the North East. The pilgrimage remains a key part of Sixth Form life, allowing students to deepen their understanding of St Cuthbert’s faith, mission, and legacy in the very place where he lived and prayed.

Back in school, the rest of the pupils took part in extended form time, beginning with prayers and stories of St Cuthbert’s life and legends. Pupils then took part in a creative activity, making their own otter cut-outs to commemorate the well-known legend of the otters warming St Cuthbert’s feet after he prayed in the sea. The activity also celebrated the introduction of our new school mascot, Cuddy the Otter, linking tradition with the life of the school today.

Across all year groups, the day was a meaningful celebration of faith, community, and the enduring story of St Cuthbert, whose example continues to inspire pupils to live with compassion, commitment, and unity.