Collective Worship
Collective Worship is central to the life of Westbury Junior School. Rooted in our Christian vision, “Let your light shine” – Matthew 5:16, worship provides opportunities for pupils and adults to grow spiritually, reflect on God’s love, recognise their unique gifts and consider how they can positively influence the lives of others.
Our vision is founded on the belief that every child is unique and has their own strengths, gifts and potential. We want our children to discover their own light and have the confidence to let it shine. Through Collective Worship, we encourage pupils to develop as compassionate, responsible and courageous citizens who can make a positive difference to themselves, their peers, their community and the wider world.
Our worship is shaped by our three Christian values of Respect, Care and Inspire, which are revisited and developed throughout the year. Each term has a particular focus, allowing pupils to explore these values through different themes and biblical narratives. Respect encourages children to value themselves, others and God's creation; Care develops compassion, kindness, service and stewardship; and Inspire encourages pupils to recognise their gifts, encourage others, develop leadership and become the best version of themselves.
Collective Worship is inclusive, invitational and inspirational. We recognise that our school community includes children and adults from different religious and non-religious backgrounds, and we aim to create a welcoming environment where everyone can participate, reflect and respond. Worship provides a calm and purposeful opportunity to come together as a community, while also allowing space to consider the issues, events and experiences that matter to us.
Our weekly pattern provides a rich variety of worship experiences. On Mondays, Picture News introduces a current local, national or global issue alongside a Big Question, British Value, Protected Characteristic and UNCRC Article. Pupils consider how these contemporary issues connect with our Christian value and how they might respond by letting their light shine. On Tuesdays, OPAL and Spiritual Development provide opportunities to explore spirituality through outdoor play, awe and wonder, creativity, relationships, resilience and stewardship.
On Wednesdays, Picture News Collective Worship revisits the week's issue through Scripture, our White Horse Team Bible theme and the term's Christian value. Children are encouraged to reflect on how Christian faith can inform everyday choices and inspire courageous action. Thursday Singing Worship provides an opportunity to worship through music linked to the liturgical season, Bible themes and our school values, alongside opportunities for prayer and reflection. The week concludes with Friday Celebration Worship, when we celebrate achievements, Values Awards, courageous advocacy, attendance and examples of pupils who have truly “Let Their Light Shine.”
Our worship takes place in a variety of settings, including the school hall, classrooms, outdoors and at All Saints Church. We value contributions from pupils, staff, church clergy and visitors, giving members of our school community opportunities to take an active role in worship.
Spiritual development is not confined to a formal act of worship. Our approach recognises that children can experience spirituality through everyday moments of joy, exploration, reflection, creativity, relationships and service. Our OPAL provision is an important expression of this, providing opportunities for children to experience awe and wonder in God's creation, develop resilience, work collaboratively, take managed risks, care for the environment and discover their unique God-given gifts.
We also use Picture News to encourage courageous conversations and theological reflection. Pupils explore real-world issues, consider different perspectives and make connections between contemporary events, Scripture and our Christian values. Through discussion, prayer and stillness, they are encouraged to consider practical ways in which they can make a positive difference.
Above all, our Collective Worship seeks to help children understand that their faith, values and actions matter. We want every child to recognise that they have something valuable to contribute and to leave Westbury Junior School with the confidence, compassion and courage to use their gifts positively.
Through Respect, Care and Inspire, we encourage every member of our school community to discover their light, nurture the light in others and have the courage to “Let their light shine.”