Spiritual Awareness and Development

What is Spirituality?

It is very difficult to put into words what ‘spirituality’ actually is because it is a very personal experience that differs from person to person. 

It is a core component to ‘living life in all its fullness’ as the mind, body and soul needs to be nurtured equally. It relates to fundamental questions about the meaning and purpose of life which affects everyone and is not dependant on a religious belief. 

As a school we believe spirituality is not something we can see or touch; it is something we feel inside ourselves. 
                                                        

Why is Spirituality important?

Firstly, spiritual development is not about becoming more spiritual; it is about realising or becoming more aware of one’s natural, innate spirituality.

As a school we use the ‘Windows, Mirrors and Doors’ model to provide children with openings for spiritual development, by simply encouraging an increased awareness of the world.

Windows

Giving children opportunities to become aware of the world in new ways; to wonder about life’s ‘WOWs’ (things that are amazing) and ‘OWs’ (things that are sad or hurtful). 

Mirrors

Giving children opportunities to reflect on their experiences; to meditate on life's big questions and to consider some possible answers. In this they are learning from life by exploring their own insights and perspectives and those of others.

Doors

Giving children opportunities to respond to all of this; to do something creative as a means of expressing, applying and further developing their thoughts and convictions. In this they are learning to live by putting into action what they are coming to believe and value.

How do we develop spirituality at school?

• Caring for nature, the world and living things
• Wanting to love and to be loved by others
• Curiosity and asking life’s big questions to find meaning and purpose
• Imagination and creativity, appreciating beauty in the world and other experiences of awe and wonder
• Stillness, silence, reflection, meditation and prayer
• Aspiring to be peacemakers, ready to forgive

How is Spirituality Nurtured at school?

• Forest school, the secret garden and using the school environment
• Giving them time to ask questions within a positive questioning culture and giving them an opportunity to explore their thoughts and opinions.
• Through making time to listen to our children and also giving them opportunities to listen.
• Through collective worship and all lessons within the curriculum and the times in-between.
• Mindfulness, connecting with the here and now, calmly and peacefully.
• Living a moral life established in our Christian values, so we can flourish as moral citizens.
• Making well-being and fulfilment a priority. We see spiritual development as integral to the well-being of both the individual and community.

 Pupil Voice about Spirituality

Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development and Provision