Collective Worship
‘Collective Worship’ is a time when the whole school or groups within the school meet together to engage in relevant, meaningful experiences, providing opportunities for the pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.
At Belmont School, collective worship is set within the context of ‘Assemblies’ – which may include other features besides those required of collective worship.
Aims and Purpose
During collective worship we aim to:
- Fulfil statutory requirements of a daily act of collective worship for all pupils.
- Reflect on values that are of a broadly Christian character and on our own beliefs.
- Allow a pause for reflection and stillness in the midst of the pressure of the school day.
- Develop a community spirit, a common ethos and shared values.
- Provide a variety of opportunities for spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.
- Provide opportunities for expressing shared experiences and interests and for celebrating special occasions together.
- Provide opportunities in which pupils interact with other year groups, staff and on occasions the wider community, as well as offering opportunities to perform and respond to a presentation of readings, music, dance, drama or prayer.
The School Community
Assemblies are non-denominational and conducted in a manner which is sensitive to the faiths and beliefs of all members of the school community. Assemblies are regarded as a special time in the day, provide periods of calm reflection and are conducted accordingly. Children are expected to behave respectfully and thoughtfully and are asked to come in and leave assemblies in a quiet manner.
Organisation of Collective Worship
Collective worship involves members of the school coming together and participating in an assembley or class group. An assembly may involve all of the pupils in the school, separate key stage or class assemblies. The time of the assembly may vary. In each assembly there will be a short time given to reflect on the stimulus. To focus attention a candle might be lit, a picture or image displayed, a poem read.