Collective worship is viewed as a significant part of the day. We aim for it to be the beating heart of our school and an important part of our daily routine.
Worship is led by all teaching staff, the local clergy and children, providing exposure to a variety of different ways to worship which include music, silence, prayer, story and reflection. Everyone is invited to take part in a way that is appropriate for them, whilst being respectful to the wishes and views of others. This creates a welcoming and inclusive feel to our worships. Worship takes place in a variety of places: classrooms, the hall, outside and the church, demonstrating that we can worship wherever we are.
The collective worship programme includes Christian festivals, our federation values, themes to explore that have been identified either by circumstance or offered by staff or children, or link with the curriculum.
Collective worship is rooted in Christian belief and the use of bible stories and discussion allows children to investigate this further.
Prayers may be said at other times of the day such as before lunch and at the end of the day. Although we are a Church of England School, families associated with school attend various churches, are from other major world faiths or families of no faith.
Children contribute to the content of collective worship and their views are considered in the development of worship within the school. They talk about how worship has prompted them to reflect on behaviour, values and attitudes and act.
"I like time to pray because it shows God we worship him."
"I like doing it together."
"Collective worship let's me have quiet time."
"It is part of our day that we spend together."
"It reminds people about messages, like forgiveness."
Parents have the right to withdraw children from collective worship.