Here at Good Shepherd our students are immersed in the distinct yet complementary dimensions of Religious Education as pictured below:
The relationship between the religious education program and the religious life of the schools in Brisbane Catholic Education is deeply interconnected. The religious education program serves as the academic and intellectual foundation for students, providing them with knowledge about the Catholic tradition and other religious worldviews. This program supports the broader religious life of the school, which encompasses the lived experience of faith through prayer, worship, and social justice activities. Together, they form a comprehensive approach to spiritual development, ensuring that students not only learn about their faith but also live it out in meaningful ways within the school community and beyond.
Religious Education
Religious Education in Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) schools is based on a comprehensive and dynamic program that is an essential part of the holistic development of students. It is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the Catholic faith, encouraging them to explore and grow in their own spirituality.
The BCE Religious Education curriculum is structured around four interrelated strands: Sacred Texts, Beliefs, Church, and Christian Life. These strands are taught in an integrated manner appropriate to our school's specific local contexts. The Religion Curriculum is aligned with the Australian Curriculum and is taught, assessed and reported on in the same way.
Religious Education at Good Shepherd is not just about academic learning; it is about nurturing a living faith that influences students' choices and actions. This aligns with the mission of Catholic education to form individuals who are knowledgeable, responsible, and faith-filled members of society, reinforcing our shared values and goals.
Religious Life of the School
The Religious Life of the School (RLOS) at Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School is a comprehensive and vibrant component that encompasses four interrelated components: Religious Identity and Culture, Evangelisation and Faith Formation, Prayer and Worship, and Social Action and Justice. These components work together to create a holistic religious experience that nurtures the spiritual growth of students and the school community.
At Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School, our Religious Life of the School (RLOS) is at the heart of everything we do. Inspired by the teachings of Jesus Christ, we foster a faith-filled community where learners, staff and families are invited to grow in faith, develop meaningful relationships, and make a positive difference in the world.
Religious Identity and Culture
Our Catholic identity is evident from the moment you enter our school. Through our welcoming environment, the naming of our buildings and spaces, our traditions, symbols and daily interactions, we strive to reflect the values and charism of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. We nurture a strong sense of belonging where every member of our community is valued, respected and encouraged to live out Gospel values in their everyday lives.
Evangelisation and Faith Formation
Faith formation is central to life at Good Shepherd. We provide opportunities for learners, staff and families to deepen their relationship with God and grow in their understanding of Catholic beliefs and traditions. Through retreats, formation experiences, classroom learning and our close connection with Our Lady of the Southern Cross Parish, we encourage our community to live the Gospel message with hope, courage and compassion.
Prayer and Worship
Prayer and worship are integral to the life of our school community. Learners engage regularly in a variety of prayer experiences, including traditional, meditative and reflective forms of prayer. We gather as a school for liturgies, celebrations and whole-school Masses to mark significant occasions in the Church’s calendar. With our parish church located onsite, classes also have the opportunity to participate in parish Masses, strengthening their connection to the wider faith community
Social Action and Justice
At Good Shepherd, we believe faith is lived through action. Learners are encouraged to respond to the needs of others with compassion, generosity and a commitment to justice. Through fundraising, advocacy and outreach initiatives, our school community actively supports organisations such as Caritas Australia through Project Compassion, Catholic Mission, St Vincent de Paul Society, and a range of local and global causes. These experiences help learners develop an understanding of their responsibility to contribute to a more just and compassionate world.Through these four dimensions of Religious Life, we seek to form young people who are inspired by faith, guided by Gospel values and committed to making a positive difference in their communities.
Further details regarding the Religion Curriculum can be accessed through the Brisbane Catholic Education website.