At ACA, Theological formation is taught weekly by the Dominican Friars. The children are encouraged to wonder about God, ask questions, and go deep into the understanding of Theology, which deepens their relationship with God and His Church. Sacramental preparation lessons are also given to students preparing for reception of their first Confession, first Holy Communion, and Confirmation. These lessons are also led by the Dominican friars.
Catechesis classes are a weekly part of the curriculum, and are delivered by the Missionary Sisters of Charity, who teach the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd programme.
Aquinas Classical Academy is more than a school; it's a family united by a shared vision and faith. We firmly believe that prayer is a vital component of the success of the Academy, and so, we have a rosary initiative, where each family prays the rosary one night each week for the school and its staff, students, and future students, and their families. We have a rota, which ensures that at least one rosary is prayed every day for the school.
The students and staff attend weekly mass on Fridays at 11am in St Mary's Dominican Church, Pope's Quay. The grace of the Holy Mass holds profound significance for our teachers and students, acting as a beacon of spiritual nourishment and guidance amidst the challenges of our educational journey. For teachers, the Holy Mass is a source of divine wisdom and patience, enabling us to approach our vocation not merely as a job but as a sacred calling. It reinforces our role as mentors and guides, inspired by the greatest teacher, Jesus Christ, to lead with compassion, understanding, and an unwavering commitment to the growth and well-being of our students. For students, the grace received during the Holy Mass offers a sanctuary of peace and perspective, a reminder of the presence of God in their lives, especially in moments of doubt, stress, or confusion. It imbues them with the strength to pursue their studies with diligence and integrity, fostering a sense of purpose that transcends academic achievements. The values and lessons gleaned from the Holy Mass cultivate in students a deep-rooted sense of responsibility towards themselves and others, encouraging them to apply these principles in their daily interactions and future endeavors. Together, for both teachers and students, the Holy Mass is a wellspring of spiritual enrichment that enhances their educational experience. It teaches humility and gratitude, virtues essential for lifelong learning and personal development. The Holy Mass also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of faith and reason, illuminating the path towards truth and knowledge through the lens of Christian teachings. Ultimately, the grace of the Holy Mass fortifies the educational community, enriching the hearts and minds of teachers and students. It fosters an environment where learning is infused with faith, hope, and love, preparing individuals not only for academic success but for a life lived in service to God and neighbor.
Children attend Eucharistic Adoration every Tuesday evening, and parents are invited to join the children for an extended period of adoration after school if they wish to do so. The children also have access to the chapel on their breaks, and can pray in front of the tabernacle. Eucharistic Adoration offers a unique and profound opportunity for our students and staff to deepen their faith and find solace in the midst of their busy lives. This practice, centered on the reverent observation and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, is a powerful reminder of God’s abiding presence and love. For students, it provides a moment of quiet reflection and prayer, a sanctuary away from the pressures of academics, extracurricular activities, and the complexities of growing up. In the silence and stillness before the Eucharist, they can lay down their burdens, seek guidance, and draw strength from the Lord’s presence. For staff and educators, Eucharistic Adoration serves as a wellspring of spiritual renewal and inspiration. It is a time to reconnect with our vocation’s deepest callings, to find peace amidst the challenges of teaching and administration, and to seek wisdom in our role as mentors and leaders. The moments spent in adoration can rekindle the joy and passion for our work, reminding us of the profound impact they have on the lives of our students.
Incorporating daily prayer into our curriculum is a testament to our commitment to nurturing not just the intellect but also the spiritual well-being of our students and staff. This holistic approach to education ensures that our community is grounded in faith and guided by divine wisdom throughout the day. Our day begins with morning prayer, setting a reflective tone and intention for the day ahead. This shared moment of silence and contemplation invites everyone to center themselves in God’s presence, offering their efforts, challenges, and hopes for the day into His hands. It’s a reminder that beyond our academic pursuits, our primary call is to live in communion with God and each other. Seeking the intercession of St. Thomas Aquinas, patron saint of students and academics, is particularly meaningful in our context. We pray for his guidance to help us in our studies, asking him to inspire us with the love for learning and the perseverance to pursue truth and wisdom. His example as a scholar and a saint encourages our students and faculty to integrate faith and reason in their quest for knowledge. Grace before meals is another pivotal aspect of our daily prayer routine, reminding us to pause and give thanks amidst our busy schedules. It fosters a spirit of gratitude for God’s provision and the hands that prepared our food, enhancing a sense of community as we share meals together. Finally, our day concludes with a prayer for our students, their families, and the intentions of our donors. This final prayer reinforces our sense of community and mutual care. It's a commitment to hold each other up in prayer, recognizing the various needs, challenges, and hopes within our community. Praying for our donors also strengthens our appreciation for the generosity that supports our mission, reminding us of the broader community that participates in our educational endeavor. Through these practices, daily prayer becomes the backbone of our curriculum, integrating spiritual formation with academic excellence. It shapes a school culture that values the development of the whole person, encourages a reflective and prayerful approach to life’s challenges, and cultivates a deeply supportive community bound by faith and mutual respect.