St. Patrick’s Parish, Dipton

St. Patrick’s Primary School stands as a beacon of education and community spirit. As an integral part of St. Patrick’s Parish, the school has been nurturing young minds and fostering a sense of belonging for generations.  We view ourselves as a small school with big ambitions and we are supported in all our endeavours by our parish and local community.

A Welcoming Environment

The school is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, where children of the Catholic faith, as well as those from other faiths, or no faith traditions, are warmly embraced. The staff at St. Patrick’s believe in the transformative power of education and provide the best possible start for every child.

Proximity to St. Patrick’s Church

We are very fortunate that St. Patrick’s Primary School is situated in such close proximity to St. Patrick’s Church. We make full use of this close physical connection. Fr. Shaun is the parish priest at St. Patrick’s, he is supported by Deacon Paul. We believe that the school is an important part of the life of the parish and that the parish is equally important in the life of our school.

Our pupils regularly celebrate Mass with the parish on a Sunday and participate fully, welcoming parishioners, reading, writing the intercessions and through involvement in the offertory.

Communication

We promote activities within the parish via links within our school newsletter and social media updates.

Useful information

Parish led by:	Father Shaun and Deacon Paul
Address:	North Road, Dipton DH9 9BB   As Father Shaun is based at St Joseph’s, the address is:   St Joseph’s Presbytery Thorneyholme Terrace DH9OBL
Contact Number	01207 299012 (Father Shaun is based at St Joseph’s Stanley)
Website	stanleycatholic.org

Sacramental Preparation

During Year Four, our children are given the opportunity to make the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion.  

Our experience tells us that the faith of children is best nourished when home, school and parish work together. Firstly, and most importantly, children learn about faith in their home. This is then supported by the people of the wider parish community and school.  

Within the R.E. curriculum in Year Four, children learn about the Sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist and through working with the parish, they will learn more about the Mass.  

You will know that your child is ready to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation when they:  

• Know that God loves them and is always ready to forgive no matter what;  
• Are able to reflect on their own behaviour;  
• They want to express sorrow and to make amends;  
• And appreciate the place and importance of Reconciliation.  

You will know that your child is ready to celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Communion when they:  

• Know about Jesus, they pray to Him and want to receive Communion with Him and His church;  
• Show reverence and respect;  
• Know the difference between Holy Communion and ordinary food;  
• Be attentive and aware of what is happening during Mass;  
• Have some sense of belonging to the parish family.  

If you would like any further information about the Sacramental Preparation programme, please contact Fr Shaun, Deacon Paul or Mrs Burgess