CHURCH SCHOOL STATUS
A School with a Distinctive Christian Character
As a Church of England (controlled) primary school we are required to have a distinctive Christian character. This means:
- We have a strong, caring ethos, evident in the way we support, relate to and encourage one another. This is based on three key, inclusive, Christian values:
Love = unconditional care and respect for all members of our school family.
Trust = in each other and in ourselves.
Forgiveness = a fresh start for everyone, every day.
- Our daily acts of collective worship have a clear Christian flavour and reflects the beliefs and practices of the Church of England. It is not a church style service however and is designed to be inspirational, invitational and inclusive to pupils of all ages and backgrounds.
- Around our school you will find evidence of our Christian character expressed in visible and practical ways including displays, art work and symbols.
- Our annual programme of events includes visits to and services in our local parish church, St. Margaret's e.g. Harvest Festival, Christmas Carol Concert, Ash Wednesday service, Easter Celebration, Pentecost.
- We have links with the local parish and the Parish Priest is a regular visitor and Governor in our school.
Our aim is not to convert any child to a particular religion or belief system. We respect the right of all individuals to hold their own beliefs or none and will always support this provided those beliefs and practices do not contravene the law or compromise the rights or well being of others.
Our Harvest Service 2024
OUR SCHOOL PRAYER
Dear Lord, bless our school,
In that working together
and playing together
we may learn to love one another
and to serve you.
Amen.
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St Margaret's Parish Church - West Hoathly
Spirituality
Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural development at West Hoathly CE Primary School should lead children to make their own informed decisions throughout life based on a strong basis of right and wrong, whilst respecting the views and beliefs of others.
Through spiritual development the children of West Hoathly are taught:
· To think about themselves, how they relate to other people, to the wider world in which they live and to God;
· To reflect beyond and within themselves on God’s creation and the precious nature of human existence;
· To develop greater self-awareness and self-esteem;
· To encounter a sense of awe, wonder and mystery: and,
· To experience opportunities for creativity, curiosity, freedom, imagination and response.