It is a school expectation that all teachers lead worship and worship in the classroom following our school guidelines. We monitor our collective worship sessions to ensure that we are following our school policy and that it adheres to the Diocese of Canterbury Guidelines for schools.
At St. Laurence we encourage our children to be reflective and to be respectful of Christian values. Children take part in an act of Worship that is inclusive and inspiring. There is a session led by the ministry team of St. Laurence church once a week. Every week, each year group goes to church and once a term there is a whole school service in church. Children are actively encouraged to engage with acts of worship and to help lead acts of worship.
In school each class has a Prayer Space where children are actively encouraged to reflect, we also have other reflective areas in school such as our entrance area and in our Peace Garden.
Worship Shepherds
At St Laurence CE Junior Academy, anyone can take on the role of a worship shepherd, and our goal is to have representation in all classes throughout the school. At St Laurence CE Junior Academy, our worship shepherds play a vital role in fostering a positive and spiritually enriching school environment, embodying the core values of our school. Some of their Roles and Responsibilities:
- Take an active part in Collective Acts of Worship.
- Support the teacher leading worship.
- Lead the gathering, lighting of the candle, prayer, and sending.
- Plan and lead class worships.
- Lead by example.
- Show love and nurture to all members of the school community.
- Support other children, classes, or key stages in their worships as requested.
- Support Church Services and Special Events.
- Assist in organising special events in school (e.g., Holy Week, Prayer Weeks).
- Advocacy and Global Awareness.