Spirituality and Spiritual Development

The Church of England Vision for Education is rooted in Jesus’ desire that “all may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). At our school, this vision shapes everything we do. We are committed to nurturing the whole child—spiritually, academically, and socially, so that every member of our community can flourish and grow into their God given potential.

Spirituality is the way we connect our thoughts and emotions to reflect on, respond to, and make sense of the experiences we encounter in life. It involves our search for meaning and purpose, and relates to our sense of wholeness as human beings. Spirituality shapes how we respond to both the awe-inspiring and the difficult moments in life. It is deeply connected to our ability to think profoundly, to feel deeply, and to live meaningfully. While it often aligns with a person's moral framework, it may or may not include a relationship with God.

In a Church school like St Richard's, however, a Christian framework shapes our understanding of spirituality and spiritual development.  Christian spirituality is shaped by particular understandings of God, human identity, and the world which are shaped by the Bible and Christian tradition.  We believe that the school's Christian vision, with its strong theological underpinning, will lead to those who have faith and those who do not flourishing and thriving side by side.  It will create a strong and safe community in which pupils and adults alike can grow and develop spiritually.

It is our responsibility and desire to create a nurturing and supportive environment where pupils and adults will have opportunities, experiences, and space for spiritual development.  In this way they can grow in their understanding of themselves, others, and the world around them.