Spirituality

At St Berteline’s is a Church of England school, we believe the opportunity and encouragement for the child to develop their spirituality to be a key part in the whole of a child’s school experience and should be embedded into every aspect of our school life. It is important that this development is seen as only part of a lifetime experience of discovery and not something which can be measured by specific outcomes. It is connected to the search for meaning and purpose and relates to a dimension beyond the physical senses. It centres more on beliefs, feelings and emotions and should be evident in all acts of worship and areas of school life.

At St Berteline’s, we use the Windows, Mirrors and Doors approach to support children’s spiritual development throughout school life. Windows give children opportunities to look out and wonder at the world beyond themselves by exploring big questions, different beliefs, nature, and moments of awe and mystery.

Mirrors invite children to look in, reflecting on their own thoughts, feelings, experiences and beliefs, helping them grow in self-awareness and understanding of what matters to them. Doors encourage children to step out into the world, inspiring them to respond through action - showing kindness, making choices, living out our values and contributing positively to their community.

Together, windows, mirrors and doors help children see spirituality as an ongoing journey of discovery, meaning and purpose that runs through worship, learning and everyday life at St Berteline’s.

What Spirituality Looks Like at St Bert’s

At St Bert’s, spirituality is nurtured in many ways:

• Through stillness and reflection: We offer calm, quiet moments that give children space to pause, to connect with their thoughts and emotions, and to be present in the moment.

• Through awe and wonder: We encourage children to be curious, to notice beauty in the world around them, and to respond with a sense of amazement and gratitude.

• Through relationships: Our school community is built on love, respect, and acceptance. We celebrate the uniqueness of every individual and value each child as a special part of our school family.

• Through learning: Our curriculum provides opportunities to explore life’s big questions, to challenge ideas, and to think deeply about values, beliefs, and meaning.

• Through our Christian vision and values: Rooted in faith, we guide children to develop a spiritual understanding of themselves and the world, encouraging a relationship with God and a desire to live with compassion, kindness, and courage.

Our Environment

The environment at St Bert’s is carefully shaped to support spiritual growth. From dedicated reflection areas to classroom discussions, nature walks to acts of collective worship, children are surrounded by opportunities to grow spiritually to live out what they believe, to listen to others, and to find their own voice.

We want every child to feel that they belong, that they are loved, and that they have a purpose. By nurturing their spirituality, we help them to flourish as individuals, confident in who they are and ready to make a positive difference in the world.