Collective Worship
At Whitegate CE Primary we are a partnership of school, church, home and community. We create a stimulating and caring environment, grounded in Christian belief and practice, so that all members of our school community feel safe and secure. Time is taken to value and nurture each child educationally, creatively and spiritually, valuing the preciousness of each individual. Children and staff are encouraged to live their faith and grow in wisdom.
Acts of Collective Worship
|
At Whitegate CofE Primary School, collective worship is the most important part of the school day and the spiritual flourishing of all is paramount. For this reason, we gather together as a whole school (staff and all pupils) four times a week with one act of worship each week dedicated to class worship. Our previous SIAMS report summed up our approach to worship perfectly: ‘pupils respond very positively to the relaxed but reverent tone’. Twice a week, we gather to learn about and reflect on one of our Christian values, thinking about how we can see this in action and conscious choices that we can make to display that value. Tuesday’s worship is led by a visitor, either from our own church, or a different one – Anglican, Free Methodist and a ‘free church’. This allows us to appreciate diversity in worship which helps us to experience faith as a living reality from multiple perspectives. |
There are opportunities on Fridays – ‘Let your Light Shine’ worship – to celebrate one another’s achievements, however there is also the opportunity to learn more about God and the bible. During these special times, we sing, listen to stories, reflect on them and pray together. Children are involved in delivery of Collective Worship throughout the school year. Children help to plan, organise and lead the major services which are held in St Mary's Church: Harvest, Christmas, Easter and the Leavers' Service, as well as more informal services. Parents, relatives and friends within the local community are warmly welcome to attend.
'The inclusive Christian ethos is evident during collective worship where pupils respond very positively to the relaxed but reverent tone. They value the opportunity to be together, participate, reflect and celebrate each other’s achievements. One pupil commented that his favourite time of the day was ‘when we all get together in assembly’.' (SIAMS, July 2019)
Mrs Finney (the Children's Worker at St Mary's) also leads our Christian Club for KS1 each Tuesday after school. The children enjoy listening to gospel verses at their own level and making a craft linked to the week's theme.