Christianity at Draycott
At Draycott and Rodney Stoke Church of England First School, we believe that children thrive and reach their full potential when they are happy, nurtured, having fun, and growing from a foundation of strong Christian values.
We value spirituality and the holistic development of each child. As educators, our role is to guide the children in our care along life’s path. As they grow in their understanding of spirituality and values, they become secure enough to make mistakes—and to learn and grow from them, both spiritually and academically.
We are an inclusive school, welcoming children of all faiths, cultures, and backgrounds.
Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) Development
At Draycott & Rodney Stoke, we believe that children thrive and reach their full potential when they are happy, nurtured, having fun, and growing from a foundation of strong Christian values.
We value spirituality and the holistic development of each child. As educators, our role is to guide the children in our care along life’s path. As they grow in their understanding of spirituality and values, they become secure enough to make mistakes—and to learn and grow from them, both spiritually and academically.
We are an inclusive school, welcoming children of all faiths, cultures, and backgrounds. Our Christian vision calls us to honour the dignity of every individual and to live well together in a diverse community.
As an expression of our vision that all may flourish and grow, we are committed to developing the whole child.
Pupils’ spiritual development is shown by their:
- Beliefs, religious or otherwise, which inform their perspective on life and their respect for others’ feelings and values
- Sense of enjoyment and fascination in learning about themselves, others, and the world around them, including the intangible
- Use of imagination and creativity in their learning
- Willingness to reflect on their experiences
Pupils’ moral development is shown by their:
- Ability to recognise right from wrong and apply this understanding in their own lives
- Understanding of the consequences of their actions
- Interest in exploring and offering reasoned views on moral and ethical issues
Pupils’ social development is shown by their:
- Use of a range of social skills in different contexts, including working and socialising with pupils from different religious, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds
- Willingness to participate in a variety of social settings, including volunteering, cooperating with others, and resolving conflicts effectively
- Interest in and understanding of how communities and societies function at different levels
Pupils’ cultural development is shown by their:
- Understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultural influences that have shaped their own heritage
- Willingness to participate in and respond to artistic, musical, sporting, mathematical, technological, scientific, and cultural opportunities
- Interest in exploring and respecting cultural diversity, and their ability to understand, accept, and celebrate difference—demonstrated through their attitudes toward various religious, ethnic, and socio-economic groups at local, national, and global levels
Church and Community
We are proud of our strong connection with the Church and our rector. This partnership enriches both our school and the wider community, fostering spiritual growth and a strong sense of belonging.
Collective Worship is held weekly at our neighbouring St. Peter’s Church, as well as at key points throughout the term. These gatherings provide special opportunities for our children and their families to come together in reflection and celebration. When possible, we also visit St. Leonard’s Church in Rodney Stoke.
Clergy also visit regularly to lead services in school. Their thoughtful messages and warm presence make these occasions especially meaningful. They are greatly appreciated by the children, who thoroughly enjoy their lively and inspiring services.
Throughout the year, we host a variety of church and community events—ranging from harvest celebrations to Christmas carol services. These events encourage participation and help strengthen the ties between school, families, and the wider community.
We are committed to nurturing the spiritual development of our children and to creating a warm, inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome, so that together, we may all flourish and grow.
Further information about praise and worship can be found here: St Peter’s Church, Draycott – A Church Near You / St Leonard’s Church, Rodney Stoke – A Church Near You