Baptism is the first sacrament we receive, with First Holy Communion being the second. In order to register on our programme you must be a parishioner of St Joseph’s or St Edmund’s. Children should be at least 8 years old on 1st September in the year of enrolment (School Year 4). If your child is above this age then that is fine, there is no upper limit, though if your child is 14+ it may be we find a different preparation.

Children and their parents are expected to attend Mass frequently (weekly). Children are expected to attend all preparation classes and complete all course work.

At your child's Baptisms you, the parents, were told that you ' would be the first and best teachers of your children in the way of faith'. Following this, the best thing you as parents can do to prepare your children for this sacrament is to regularly attend Mass.

Parents will be invited and expected to attend each of the preparation sessions alongside the children. Parents are “the first and best educators of their children in the ways of faith”. Your involvement in the preparation of your children for First Holy Communion is paramount. The parish 'helps', but does not replace your part in the process of leading your children in the development of their faith, through the development and example of your own.

As part of their preparation your child will be prepared for, and invited to make their First Reconciliation: “Children must go to the sacrament of Penance before receiving Holy Communion for the first time” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1457).

The current cohort is closed. Next year 2025-2026 will be announced here when open.