What is spirituality?

At Old Bexley CE Primary, all aspects of school life reflect a Christian ethos.  We aim for all children to work together, to live life in all its fullness and this includes spiritual development.  

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 synonymous with having a religion or faith but can be explored through many different curriculum areas.

As a school, we have defined spirituality as 4 concepts:

• self
• others
• world and beauty
• beyond

Our starting point is our pupil's own "big" questions about life and from this we plan a series of encounters where pupils learn about life (windows), that open up the possibility of reflection where pupils learn from life (mirrors), which leads to transformation (doors) and learning to live by putting into action what we believe.    

 

Self

Children are born inquisitive and it is our duty to nurture this natural curiosity and their perception of themselves as a unique person. We want to encourage children to ask ‘big questions’ about life, religion, nature, science and any other area of fascination.

Others

We provide many opportunities for children to learn about the concept of others: to develop empathy, concern and compassion of how to treat others.  Through our Christian Values, we teach children to care for friends, family and the community. Indeed, our curriculum includes learning about those we love and who love us.

World and Beauty

We encourage a growing relationship with the beauty and wonder of the natural world.  Through science and topic work, children learn about the world and how they can care for and protect our world.  

Beyond

Children search for meaning in their very existence and their place in the greater scheme of things.

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Children’s spiritual development is fostered through all aspects of school life. 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 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 through rewarding their enthusiasm and by encouraging exploratory play and learning;
• reflect upon the world around us and show a sense of awe and wonder towards aspects of the natural world or human achievement;
• reflect on the situations of others through role play and stories;
• experience a range of stories, music, art, drama and dance.