Spiritual Development
Spiritual development relates to fundamental questions about the meaning and purpose of life. As a church school we believe that spirituality should influence all areas of education and life. Spiritual development is not about becoming more spiritual, it is about realising or becoming more and more aware of one’s natural, innate spirituality. This is sometimes a slow and gradual process, at other times there might be significant stages of realisation, which are part of the ongoing ‘developing’ process. Children don’t reach a finished state of spiritual development, but participate in the ongoing process of spiritual realisation.
Windows: Giving pupils opportunities to become aware of the world in new ways. Learning about life in all its fullness. This includes both the things that amaze them and also challenge them.
Mirrors: Giving pupils opportunities to reflect upon their experiences. To meditate on life's big questions and to consider some possible answers. Learning from life, by exploring their own insights and perspectives and those of others.
Doors: Giving pupils opportunities to respond, to do something creative in order to express, apply and further develop their thoughts and convictions. Learning to live by putting into action their beliefs and values.
Spirituality
Spirituality is a very personal experience. It differs from person to person and often spirituality changes within people during their lifetime. Spirituality is not the same as having a religion or faith; a person can be spiritual without having a particular faith.
At St. Andrew's we use age appropriate language to define spirituality, so when talking to our children we will refer to:
A sense of awe and wonder - including a sense of fascination and enjoyment in learning abut themselves, others and the world around them including caring for nature and living things
Use of imagination and creativity in their learning and a willingness to reflect on their experiences.
Wanting to love and to be loved by people
Awe and Wonder and Care for Living Things
Children are born inquisitive and it is our duty to nurture this natural curiosity and guide them towards looking at the world and
noticing, with awe and wonder, the natural and man-made delights all around us.
We want to encourage them to ask ‘big questions’ about life, religion, nature, science and any other area of fascination. Our OWL - Outdoor Woodland Area is fundamental to our curriculum and the importance we place on exploring and caring for our world.
Imagination and Creativity
Through Music, Art, DT, Dance and a range of creative activities we encourage our children to be imaginative and to enjoy being creative.
Love
We are a very caring and nurturing school community. We pride ourselves on our family ethos and want all our pupils to feel accepted and loved. Our vision is the desire for every pupil to fulfil their potential and to Flourish, including in their relationships. Through our Christian Values, we teach children about Respect, Perseverance, Friendship, Compassion, Forgiveness and Thankfulness.
'The core values of ‘respect, friendship and perseverance’ permeate through the school. Pupils, staff, parents and carers are proud of their school, which sits at the heart of the local community. Pupils typically describe the school as having a calm atmosphere where each day runs smoothly.' OFSTED