Spirituality

It is very difficult to put into words what ‘spirituality’ actually is because it 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.

As a school, we have defined spirituality as: “Spirituality is not something we can see; it is something we feel inside ourselves (Self) and how we treat others (Others). It is about awe and wonder (World), asking questions, inspiration and being aware of something ‘bigger’ outside of ourselves (Meaning).”

Children’s spiritual development is fostered through all aspects of our provision. It is about the relationships and the values that we consider to be important, as well as the development of knowledge, concepts, skills and attitudes.  We also believe that it is vital that adults in school are able to develop their own spirituality.  This supports their own wellbeing and ensures they can effectively help and support our children help each other.

Opportunities for spiritual development are both planned and unplanned for and exploited spontaneously.  Children and adults are encouraged to reflect on their own development through encounter, reflection and transformation.

We give children opportunities to:

• Express personal beliefs and compare views with others, sharing feelings and opinions through discussions and stories.

• Begin to develop their own system of beliefs which may or may not include religious beliefs.

• Experience a love of learning

• Reflect upon the world around them and show a sense of awe and wonder towards aspects of the natural world or human achievement through educational visits/visitors to school.

• Reflect on the situations of others through stories, One Life and ‘big questions’.

• Have regular times in the day for stillness, quiet and reflection

• Experience a range of stories, music, art, drama and dance

Self:

Spirituality involves understanding ourselves as unique individuals, what we are and what we want to become.  It includes what we choose to believe and value.

Others:

It also captures our interactions with others, how we choose to see them and relate to them, how we show humility and compassion and how we embrace equity.  When we’re spiritual, we’re filled with optimism and creativity, and we collaborate creatively with others.

World:

Spirituality also involves appreciating the beauty in the world, whether found in nature or in created things and how we contribute to making the world a better place.

Meaning:

It also extends beyond our everyday experiences, helping us to reflect on the deeper meaning of life and the universe.