St Richard of Chichester is the patron saint of our school and lies at the very heart of our Catholic identity. We are incredibly proud to bear his name and strive to live out his example in the daily life of St Richard’s Catholic Primary School. His values of faith, service, humility and perseverance shape our school’s charism and inspire everything we do.

As a school community, we look to St Richard as a model of Christian discipleship. His commitment to serving others, particularly the poor and vulnerable, reflects our mission to ensure that every child is known, valued and loved as a unique child of God. His life encourages us to walk alongside others with compassion, courage and integrity.

Each year, we joyfully celebrate St Richard’s Day with a special Mass at Chichester Cathedral, strengthening our connection with the Diocese of Arundel & Brighton and helping pupils to understand their place within the wider Catholic community. This celebration is a central part of our liturgical life and provides pupils with a meaningful opportunity to participate in prayer, worship and thanksgiving in a sacred space closely linked to our patron saint.

St Richard’s life and teachings are woven throughout our curriculum, collective worship and acts of service. Pupils learn about his life, reflect on his example, and are encouraged to live out his values through kindness, service to others and a commitment to justice. In this way, faith is not only taught but lived, supporting pupils’ spiritual, moral and personal development.

About St Richard of Chichester

St Richard of Chichester
Bishop of Chichester
Died: 3rd April 1253

Also known as: Richard de Wych, Richard Backedine, Richard of Wych
Memorial: 3rd April (liturgically celebrated on 16th June)

St Richard was born in 1197 in Droitwich, Worcestershire. After the early death of his father, he took responsibility for his family and worked hard to restore their fortunes. He was highly educated, studying at Oxford, Paris and Bologna, and later became Chancellor of Oxford University. He served as a legal advisor to St Edmund Rich and St Boniface of Savoy before being ordained as a priest and appointed Bishop of Chichester.

Despite his learning and status, St Richard lived a life of simplicity and humility. He avoided luxury, lived ascetically and dedicated himself to prayer, service and pastoral care. As Bishop, he travelled on foot across the diocese, visiting parishes, preaching the Gospel and supporting the poor. His life reflects courage, resilience and unwavering faith.

Miracles and Legacy

Several miracles are attributed to St Richard, including:

• The Chalice: During Mass, St Richard dropped the chalice, yet none of the consecrated wine was spilled.

• The Candle: During an outdoor procession, all candles were extinguished by strong winds except St Richard’s, which remained alight.

After his death, a shrine was built at Chichester Cathedral, becoming a place of pilgrimage and healing. He was canonised in 1262 by Pope Urban IV, just nine years after his death.

St Richard is the patron saint of Sussex, and his Feast Day on 16th June is also celebrated as Sussex Day, highlighting his enduring significance to our local community.

Living Our Faith Today

At St Richard’s Catholic Primary School, we honour our patron saint not only through prayer and celebration, but through action. Guided by his example, we promote:

• Respect, compassion and service to others

• Active participation in liturgy and prayer

• Strong links with our parish, diocese and cathedral

• Opportunities for pupils to lead worship and engage in charitable works

Through this lived faith, pupils grow spiritually, develop a strong moral compass and are encouraged to contribute positively to the world around them.