on site next to westminster cathedral
18th June 2025 Cardinal Vincent Nichols presided over a Mass with the staff and students of St Vincent de Paul Catholic Primary School in Westminster, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the school's establishment at its current location on Morpeth Terrace, situated near Westminster Cathedral. The school has an extensive history that spans 165 years. It was established in 1859 by Sister Marie Chatelain and the Daughters of Charity of St Vincent de Paul, from whom the institution derives its name. Initially housed at Carlisle Place, the school moved to Morpeth Terrace in 1974 after outgrowing its previous premises. During the opening ceremony, Cardinal Heenan bestowed a blessing, stating: "May God bless the teachers and pupils of our new school. We pray that under the shadow of the Cathedral they will grow in wisdom and knowledge. "To honour this significant milestone, Headteacher Mr. Scott Cree addressed the Cardinal, staff, parents, and pupils during the celebratory Mass: "Today marks not just the passage of fifty years but the celebration of a journey filled with faith, perseverance, and love that began for our school in 1859. This milestone is a testament to the strength of our shared values and the power of a community striving towards common goals. Let us take this moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for the blessings that have guided the school through the decades' Vincent de Paul School remains deeply committed to its Catholic ethos. Its badge features the reverse side of the Miraculous Medal, chosen by the founding sisters as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice on the cross and Mary's unwavering devotion at its foot. To this day, each year, members of the school community receive a Miraculous Medal, which they wear proudly as a symbol of faith and unity.