Spirituality
Spirituality at St. Paul's is about our relationships with each other, our family, friends, those around us in our community and with God.
Many people assume that spirituality is to do with Collective Worship, Religious Education or PSHE and therefore it tends to be put into those curriculum boxes. However, in reality, it should influence and permeate all areas of education and school as it does all areas of life.
The word spirituality comes from the Latin noun ‘spiritus’ meaning “the breathing of life.” Human beings are spiritual because the breath of God is within them. Spirituality is about how we experience and relate to the world and to God.
Spirituality is not an add-on extra. It is there already, a part of being human and one of the greatest needs of children is for positive, nurturing relationships. This is what makes St. Paul’s so special… we are a school family where relationships are at the centre of everything, holding our vision and core values together with the glue of kindness.
Spirituality is about awe and wonder, asking questions, inspiration and being aware of something 'bigger' outside of ourselves.”
Where we are and who we mix with everyday affects not only how we see ourselves but also how we see others, our place in the world and our sense of spiritual identity. It happens most powerfully and tangibly in and through our relationships as we experience the love of others.
Nurturing a child’s spiritual development means:
- Time to think about themselves, other people, and the world.
- Space to enjoy new experiences.
- Security so that they feel able to question and explore.
- Affirmation that their thoughts about God, life and the universe are interesting and important.
Practical ways to foster spirituality at home:
- Focus on the five senses – sight, touch, hearing, taste, and smell – and find ways to bring them to your child’s attention.
- Listen to and appreciate a child’s enthusiasm about animals, plants, and even rocks and dinosaurs.
- Encourage children to collect “treasures” such as feathers or leaves.
- Take time to sit for even 1 minute and enjoy complete silence and stillness.
- Notice the shape of the clouds, the phases of the moon, or how a tree changes through the seasons.
- Help your child listen to others, as well as experience being listened to. Ask your child about their day, and tell them about yours.
- Talk about thoughts and feelings.
- Go for an “eyes shut” walk, with one of you guiding and describing what you see. Have a child lead you!