Primary and Secondary staff from Denominational Schools across East-Ayrshire came together on Thursday 15 February 2018 for a special Mass of thanksgiving. This was to acknowledge the contribution Catholic schools make to Scottish education and their effectiveness in delivering some of the highest levels of achievement and attainment.

School staff were joined by Elected Members, school chaplains, local councillors, Religious Education Advisors and Senior Education Managers. The Mass was followed by lunch and a presentation from guest speaker, David Wells. Mr Wells is a world renowned catechist and author who regularly speaks at conferences around the world.

Bishop Nolan said, “It is good for us to gather and celebrate the success of the partnership between East Ayrshire Council and the Church in educating young people for the good of Scotland and beyond.  The true teacher in the Catholic school is Jesus the Teacher, and we teach not only by being experts in our particular subjects but by being experts in our own humanity.  Our life in Jesus tells us who we are and helps us to give the example and witness that, in turn, supports young people to become all that God created them to be.”

Councillor Fiona Campbell remarked, “I am pleased to be part of the service and as Spokesperson for Education, it was pleasure to be part of such an historic and uplifting event.”

Other invited guests were “delighted to be part of the celebration to remember the 1918 Education (Scotland) Act and “ it was wonderful to experience the commitment shown and to affirm that continuing commitment.”