Pupils and staff at Painsley Catholic College are celebrating after receiving the LiveSimply Award – a national recognition from CAFOD that honours schools living out their faith through action by caring for people and the planet.
The award marks the culmination of a year-long effort by the Painsley community to put Catholic Social Teaching into practice in simple, powerful ways. Through creativity, compassion, and collaboration, pupils have made a real difference locally and globally.
Students have launched the Painsley Pantry – a donation-based initiative providing support to families in the school community – and introduced a new allotment area, helping pupils understand the importance of sustainability and stewardship. From reducing waste to leading whole-school reflections, pupils of all ages have contributed to the campaign.
A Year 13 student said:
“Being part of the LiveSimply journey made me realise that even small actions can have a big impact. Helping with the pantry and allotment showed me how we can live our faith in everyday life.”
Mrs Rooney who led the initiative at Painsley, said:
“This award reflects the heart of our school community. The students have been incredible – passionate, thoughtful, and committed to making the world around them better. It’s been a joy to see their faith come alive in such practical and meaningful ways.”
Siobhan Farnell, CAFOD’s LiveSimply Coordinator for Schools, said:
“Congratulations to Painsley Catholic College on this well-deserved achievement. Their students and staff have shown what it means to live simply, sustainably, and in solidarity – and have created a lasting legacy of hope and action within their school and wider community.”
