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Pupils, staff, volunteers, and former students from St Pancras Catholic Primary School in Lewes gathered at St Pancras Church at the end of the summer term for a special service to mark the closure of the school, and the ‘Going Forth’ of members of its school community. Pupils shared their gifts and talents during the service, with beautiful singing, readings and prayers led by children from the school.

St Pancras, in common with many small schools in the UK, had experienced a marked reduction in pupil enrolment numbers in recent years, leading to the difficult decision to close the school. Highlighting the continuing legacy of the school, Bishop Richard said:

“All of us gathered here today have fond memories and a great affection for St Pancras School. While this is a sad day, it is also a day where we give thanks to God; thanks for the many members of staff, families, and volunteers who have given years of service and support to the school’s young people, and thanks for the many blessings that people across the school have received as a result of their time there. Today, we ‘go forth’ carrying the wonderful experiences of our time at the school to new places, and taking with us the person of Jesus, who accompanies us on our journey.”

Reflecting on as his role as Parish Priest of the St Pancras school community, Canon Jonathan Martin said:

“It has been a great privilege for me to be your chaplain over the last 13 years. Do remember that the door of this Church is always open, and that Jesus is with you always. Remember too what you have learned at St Pancras School; to love one another, to have hope, and to look after one another. If you can remember these things, then you will change the world.”

Following the service, school staff, volunteers and existing and former pupils of all ages joined Canon Jonathan and members of the diocesan Education Service for a buffet in the school hall. Commenting on the significant contribution of the school’s staff and governors in the Catholic life and mission of St Pancras School, Diocesan Education Service Director, Julie Oldroyd said:

“St Pancras School has served its families well over many years, enjoying strong links with the parish. We hold all those connected with the school in our prayers as they ‘go forth’.”

You can see pictures from the celebration here.