This year, All Hallows Catholic High School is celebrating its 50th anniversary, its Golden Jubilee. On Thursday 18 September, the school welcomed the community to a special 50th anniversary Mass to mark this milestone – the opening of the school in September 1975. Staff and pupils, past and present, attended in a 400-strong congregation.

Over the years, All Hallows has provided an excellent Catholic education for thousands of young people. Established by the Archdiocese of Liverpool, the school was created to serve the needs of the wider Catholic community.

From the very beginning, pupils have been drawn from a family of partner parishes, which remain central to the school’s admissions today. The school has grown from a small Year 7 intake in 1975 to a thriving community of over 900 students. This Golden Jubilee gives them the opportunity to celebrate their past while looking forward with hope and ambition for the future.

The Archbishop of Liverpool, the Most Reverend John Sherrington, along with priests and deacons from the parishes, celebrated a joyful Mass. Pupils from across the school served and ministered.

The opening hymn, Build Your Kingdom, sung by both the adult and pupil choirs alongside the music group, set the tone for the celebration. A procession of pupils carried flags, pictures of form saints, and school symbols to the altar. Pupils also took part in readings, bidding prayers, and a special offertory, bringing objects that symbolise the Catholic ethos of the school.

The Gospel, from Matthew, focused on the Beatitudes. Archbishop John reflected on how young people following Jesus’ teachings on love, mercy and compassion can build the Kingdom of God on earth – a message echoed in the school’s mission: Growing Together in the Spirit of Christ’s Love.

After Mass, a reception and school tours were held for past staff and pupils, led by Year 11 prefects, concluding a wonderful night of celebration. Here’s to a golden year at All Hallows!