The LiveSimply Award offers Catholic communities — including parishes, schools, religious orders, and chaplaincies — a meaningful way to respond to Pope Francis’ call in Laudato Si’ to live more simply, sustainably, and in solidarity with the poor.

At St Patrick’s, we are proud to be working together as a whole-school community on our journey towards achieving the LiveSimply Award — a commitment to living simply, sustainably, and in solidarity with those in need.

What is the LiveSimply Award?

The LiveSimply Award is a recognition for Catholic communities — including schools — that demonstrate they are living:

• Simply
• In solidarity with people living in poverty
• Sustainably with creation

At its heart, the award encourages us to reflect on how we live and to make meaningful changes that align with our faith and values. It’s not just about living more simply — it’s about living more fully, with compassion, care, and a commitment to justice.

Living Our Faith Through Action

At St Patrick’s, we are proud to follow the CAFOD LiveSimply for Schools guide — a practical and inspiring framework that helps us live out our faith by making thoughtful, compassionate choices every day.

Through this guide, our pupils take the lead in meaningful initiatives such as:

• Reducing waste across the school
• Supporting those in need through charitable actions
• Caring for creation with eco-friendly projects and sustainable practices

These values are now woven into the fabric of school life, encouraging a culture of responsibility, empathy, and global awareness in everything we do.

What is Laudato Si’?

Laudato Si’ — On the Care of Our Common Home — is an encyclical (a formal letter) written by Pope Francis in June 2015. It is addressed not only to Catholics, but to everyone around the world, calling us all to reflect on how we care for the Earth and one another.

In Laudato Si’, Pope Francis reminds us that caring for creation is a core part of our faith — just as important as our relationships with God and with our neighbours. He challenges us to:

• Respect and protect the natural world
• Recognise the deep interconnectedness of all life
• Live simply and avoid wastefulness
• Make choices that support justice and sustainability

This powerful message inspires our school community to take meaningful action and live out our faith through care for our common home.