Spirituality

The Church of England's Vision for Education states a core desire that children will experience 'life in all its fullness' (John 10:10). At Cottingham CofE, we believe that we need to give all our children the chance to allow them to grow into the people God is calling them to be. In line with the Church’s vision, we believe that, through ‘training up a child in the way they should go,’ we nurture their infinite worth fostering an enduring passion for learning and an ability to live life in all its fullness.  We believe that we can explore Spirituality by educating the whole child, providing full life experiences to meet this desire, which includes immersion in the creative subjects.

 

At Cottingham CofE, we define spirituality as an awareness of something greater than ourselves, experienced through reflection and connection. Spiritual development at Cottingham CofE involves unique experiences of awe and wonder, an understanding of ourselves and our connections with others, as well as seeing and relating to the physical and creative world. Spirituality is understood here as an ongoing, reflective journey. It is something that teaches us about questioning, understanding and relationships: relationships with ourselves, others, the world and beyond.  For more information please do read our own Spirituality Policy. 

Spirituality Policy

 Throughout the year, staff add possibilities to enhance spirituality into their long term curriculum plans.  An example of such a plan can be found below.  This plan shows where opportunities for spirituality have been planned across the year for a year 3/4 class.   Opportunities for spirituality are not just kept to these that are planned.  Staff are expected to refer to examples at any time.  Staff also have access to a spirituality planning tool.  

Spirituality in the Curriculum

Spirituality planning tool

Throughout the school year, we also plan for a termly 'spirituality day.'   During these days, all children are engaged in learning and activity that are linked to a particular theme or area of awareness for example.  Parents/carers are also invited to a selection of these days during which time they can take part themselves.  See one of the galleries below for examples of our spirituality days.

 

Advocates Spirituality Day

Linked to Martin Luther King Day - Children took part in activities to raise awareness of advocates and having our own hopes and dreams.

 

 

Windows, Doors, Mirrors

A day was held to introduce our spirituality policy and to welcome the year in. Children and parents were introduced to the language of windows, doors and mirrors.