Christian Distinctiveness
Our Christian theological vision:
At St Mark's CE Primary School our Christian vision underpins all aspects of school life. Through Jesus' teaching children know that they are not alone, when times are hard love and light surrounds them.
Collective Worship at St Mark's CE Primary
LOVE TRUST RESPECT INSPIRE
At St Mark's children come together for worship on a daily basis. This is either delivered by staff in the school or representatives from the local Clergy. Collective worship is an opportunity for the children to sing, share celebrations and to learn about the Christian values and what these mean to them.
During the Easter celebrations at St Mark's church in March 2024 questionnaires were handed out to parents and carers requesting feedback on the impact of collective worship on their children.
32 questionnaires were completed. 81% of adults said that their child tells them about School Collective Worship when they’re at home and adults get the impression that their child enjoys it. Particular mention was made of the children enjoying singing - “She sings her heart out” was one of the comments.
Many of the adults commented positively on the School’s vision and Christian values, showing a good understanding amongst parents and carers. Some of the comments were: “They teach the children how to treat each other.” “Respect each other. Love to all.” “Morals and values.” “Upholds high values and standards.” “It’s important that the children understand love, respect, trust and inspire in everyday life.” “The Christian values are important in everyday life.” “Trust, love, respect and inspire underpin core foundations of St Mark’s.” “Teaching the children how to be a better part of society.”
69% of adults said that the vision and values make a difference to the child and the family, with comments such as: “Being kind and respectful.”, “ Instil kind and thoughtful ways.” A further 9% said that the vision and values make a difference sometimes.
The final question was, “When you have attended Collective Worship, either at the school or at St Mark’s Church, what things do you like about it? The most popular answer was, “The lovely singing”. A number of parents liked the connection between the school and the community - “Community togetherness” was mentioned several times. There was appreciation for the teachers and the School and for St Mark’s Church. Adults liked the fact that the children were involved in the activities, and that the Services are friendly and easy to follow for children and parents. There were comments that the Church visits are “lovely” and “a special time together”. People like the Church building, which echoes comments made by the children at the planning group for the Easter Service who said they love walking in and seeing all the flowers.