Our Archdiocese including Ed Service

 Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Southwark

The Archdiocese of Southwark is part of the Roman Catholic Church in England. It covers the areas of London South of the River Thames, the whole of Kent and Medway. It was created in 1850 and is based at St. George's Cathedral in Southwark. Today, it is led by Archbishop John Wilson. 

Within the Archdiocese of Southwark is the shrine of 'Our Lady, Stella Maris.' Stella Maris means star of the Sea, a special names given to Mary. It reminds Christians that Mary guides and watches over people, just as stars once helped sailors find their way across the sea. The shrine of Our Lady is very special because it is one of very few places in England where a statue of Mary has been given an official title by a Pope. During the First World War, Pope Benedict XV granted the statue its title and a special blessing called a plenary indulgence. Today, the shrine of Our Lady, Stella Maris, continues to be a peaceful and welcoming place where children, families and visitors can pray, reflect and feel close to God. 

The Catholic Education Service 

The Catholic Education Service (CES) is the national organisation that supports education in England and Wales. Working on behalf of the Bishop's Conference, it helps protect and promote what makes Catholic schools special across more than 2,300 schools. 

The work is supported locally through multi-academy trusts, such as the Kent Catholic Schools' Partnership (KSCP). Founded in 2012 by the Archbishop of Southwark, brings together many schools and provides as strong sense of shared support. By working as one family, the partnership focuses on delivering high quality education rooted in faith, so that every child can reach their God giver potential, to that they can grow and flourish. 

Stella Maris is proud to be part of KCSP. As a good school, it combines the national guidance of the CES with the shared expertise and support of the partnership. Together, this helps to build a caring and nurturing environment where Gospel Values shape everyday life and learning. 

Kent Catholic Schools Partnership works closely with the Education Service. Please click here for further information about the Education Service for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Southwark.