As a church school, we intentionally consider spiritual development within our planning. We ensure that we include time for children to be aware of the world in which they live - its joys and difficulties. Children use their own thoughts and those of others around them to reflect, grow and live out their developing values. 

To help parents, carers and children to understand what this may look like in practice, we have added some insights into spirituality across school and the Year Four curriculum. Each child's journey is unique and so their responses, reflections and actions will differ from each other. Therefore, we provide gentle, respectful challenge, pose our questions and present opportunities related to the age, stage and experience of each individual child.

During one of the Year Four geography lessons, the children looked at food miles and the impact of shopping for food that has had to travel from different countries. The children reflected on this and decided that it would be better for the environment and climate change if we could buy food from closer to home.

There were children who felt that there were possible changes that could be made. Some did this by encouraging their family to buy locally sourced food. Others have said that they now use farm shops with their parents or are more aware of where their food choices have travelled from. 

Joshua made connections with our writing topic based on the book, 'The Emerald Forest' and a David Attenborough clip. He was able to think deeply about the impact of deforestation on the the orangutans and other animals in the book, feeling keenly for their plight. The way in which this had impacted him was shared with the class. Joshua felt strongly that, "It's everyone's responsibility to take action and help the environment". 

Alice found that our class worship on recycling really impacted her thinking. She is now more self aware of her own recycling and encourages her family to do more at home.