Caritas Award

The Caritas Award is a supported year-long programme of service undertaken by pupils in the senior secondary stages, primarily in Roman Catholic schools. In negotiation with their school, pupils undertake a programme of voluntary service in the course of the school year, and also reflect on/write up their experience. The culmination is a Caritas Award, presented at a highly prestigious Awards Ceremony in the Clyde Auditorium of the Scottish Exhibition Centre in Glasgow, in June each year.

While the Award is closely linked to Catholic social teaching, a small number of pupils from the non-denominational sector also participate and the organisers would gladly support the involvement of more non-denominational schools. The Caritas Award in many ways parallels the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, and is an excellent way of encouraging pupils to get involved in numerous voluntary activities, and to think about the Christian motivation for a life of service to others.

Throughout the year participants will be asked to gather and submit evidence of their Faith Witness, Faith Learning and Faith Reflection. This evidence will be noted, recorded and gathered together for assessment purposes.

The CARITAS AWARD is open to all young people in their final year of school. Pupils of all ability levels will be able to achieve the award. Pupils of all faiths and denominations will be welcome to join in and achieve the award. The award is intended to be inclusive of all pupils who meet the success criteria.