At Theale C of E Primary School, Christian values and teachings underpin all that we do. The children have the opportunity to be involved in prayer and worship every day. Collective Worship engages all members of our school community in Anglican traditions and practices. It also offers opportunities to: come together as a community; be still and reflect; give thanks and praise; and develop deeper spiritual awareness. Our worship is inclusive and invitational and can be enjoyed by children of all faiths and of no faith.
We gather three times a week for whole-school worship. On Mondays, Mrs Morley shares a story that helps us to understand the teachings of the Bible. On Tuesdays, we share good news and celebrate children's achievements in school. This is also a chance to share special achievements from outside of school, such as trophies, awards, medals and certificates. On Wednesdays, Martin - who is the rector of Holy Trinity Church, Theale - joins us to lead our worship and to help us understand the message of God. Worship on Thursdays and Fridays is class-based, focusing on the themes of Monday's story and considering current affairs.
We visit Holy Trinity church once a month for our worship with Martin, and also for special services such as Harvest, Remembrance and Easter. Our Nativities and Christmas services are held at special locations each year including a barn to bring the Christmas story to life. We also link parts of our learning to our worship at these special times.
We pray throughout the day, particularly before lunch and at the end of the day: these prayers are often led by children. Each class has a reflection area where the children can write or say their own prayers. Many children take this idea back to their families and have been inspired to set up their own reflection areas at home.