At Harbury CE Primary School, we are committed to nurturing the spiritual development of our students in alignment with Christian values and teachings, while maintaining inclusivity for all faiths and non-faith families.
Our school vision is based on 1 John 3:18 ‘ Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth’. We explore God’s love with the children and how through our actions we can love our neighbour whether that be our village of Harbury or our worldwide neighbour.
At Harbury, children learn that spiritual development is different for everyone and is a very personal and unique experience that evolves throughout a person’s lifetime, but one that happens in a community alongside others. It is recognised that spirituality is the essence of being human and that a person can be spiritual without having a particular faith, however, we would want to share a Christian understanding of spirituality as being focused on our relationship with God. In line with our Christian vision, the uniqueness of all children and adults is respected, explored and valued, allowing everyone to flourish and live life in all its fullness.
At Harbury, spirituality means noticing and thinking about yourself, other people and the world around you,We learn how to love ourselves, love others, care for nature, and love God and beyond. Through our ‘wows, ows and nows’—moments of wonder, moments that make us think, and moments to pause—we learn to ask big questions, understand our feelings and find our special place in the world
Defining Spirituality in Christianity: Spirituality, within the context of our Christian faith, is defined as the inner journey of self-discovery and connection with God, which provides individuals with a sense of purpose, belonging, and self-identity. This journey is deeply rooted in Christian teachings and encourages love, compassion, and following the values exemplified by Jesus Christ.
Our school focuses on addressing the following fundamental questions:
Who am I?
We teach our students that they are unique creations of God, loved unconditionally.
Through the study of biblical stories and regular reflections, they explore their identities and learn the importance of creation, creativity, incarnation, love, salvation and reconciliation.
Where do I fit in?
We believe that every individual has a role in the wider community, which aligns with our Christian faith. Through service projects, acts of kindness and involvement in church activities, our students learn the significance of contributing positively to their communities and the global community.
Why am I here?
We teach our students that they are here to make the world a better place by spreading love, compassion, and justice. They are here to live out the teachings of Jesus and share His message of hope.
Ows, Wows and Nows
Throughout our lives, we experience events that shape us. During our staff meetings and collective worship, we reflect on "ows, wows, and nows"—moments of challenge, joy, and growth. These experiences help us develop as individuals, making each of us unique.
We also explore Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with golden glue. This practice teaches us that imperfections are not flaws but part of a beautiful journey. A once-broken piece, now restored, carries a deeper story—it becomes more authentic, resilient, and valuable than something that has remained unbroken.
This is spirituality—finding meaning in our experiences, embracing our imperfections, and growing stronger through them.
Spirituality and the Wider World
Our commitment to spirituality extends beyond the confines of the classroom and the church. We actively engage with the wider world, exposing our students to the diversity of faiths and beliefs that exist. This inclusivity helps students appreciate the richness of the global community and fosters mutual respect among individuals.
Faith Journeys
The concept of faith journeys is central to our spiritual guidance. We encourage students to explore their own faith journeys and those of their families. This exploration is facilitated through shared stories, fostering a deep understanding and respect for the individual paths that lead to spiritual understanding.
Inclusivity of other Faiths and Non-Faith Families
Our school is committed to inclusivity and embraces families of all faiths and those who do not adhere to any faith. We provide a respectful and open environment where all perspectives are valued. This approach fosters understanding, respect, and unity among our diverse student body.
Downloads
