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and Assemblies
CHAPEL ATTENDANCE AND RELIGIOUS PROVISION
Chigwell School has an Anglican foundation although pupils come from a wide variety of backgrounds and faiths. Chapel services respect this diversity in the School community, and we aim to celebrate the common themes from all faiths represented at the School.
We believe that a style of worship broadly acceptable to all pupils is an essential part of a strong corporate identity. Topics of addresses are wide-ranging and include presentation of scriptures, contemporary political and moral issues, points of philosophy, values and religion and spirituality. School Praefects read lessons and lead prayers in St Mary’s Church each week and pupils from all faith traditions contribute to services on Speech Day by reading from their own scriptures and by leading prayers. Pupils are encouraged to give addresses or make presentations in Chapel.
Religious topics are taught in an open-minded and critical way. Pupils are encouraged to think for themselves and respect the choices regarding belief and lifestyle made by others.
We value the distinctive contributions that pupils of different faith traditions can make. To this end, festivals from other faiths are marked. The School has special links with an ashram in India and staff, pupils and parents visit annually in February. This model of unity through diversity lies at the heart of this approach. The School seeks to foster respect and understanding of each individual’s cultural and religious background.
Chapel is at the heart of our vibrant and diverse community and it is testimony to its importance that those who leave often say how much they miss the quiet and thoughtfulness that the services offer. Many Old Chigwellians return to the Chapel for weddings and the baptism of their children.
At Chigwell School the development of the moral, social and cultural values of pupils is considered to be a key part of the education provided to pupils of all ages. According to the Chigwell Charter, members of the School are expected to show respect for others, respect for themselves and respect for the school environment. Extending this, courtesy, honesty, reliability, sensitivity towards others, tolerance of others who might be different, morality and independence are valued and, therefore, pupils are taught both explicitly and implicitly to develop these areas. Ultimately, Chigwell pupils should have a clear sense of right and wrong, and respect for the laws of the land and the principles through which members of the School and other communities exist together in harmony.
The opportunities for development of these qualities exist within the curriculum, through extra- curricular activities including school trips, PSHEE, the pastoral care system, and the programme of Church services (both weekly and on special occasions), Chapel services, assemblies and in tutor group activities.
The Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Education Policy can be found on the website.
