The Church of England's Vision for Education states that children attending a Cof E school will 'experience life in all its fullness' (John 10:10). At Denby Free, we strive to help all our children reach their full potential by developing academically, creatively, spiritually and emotionallly. 

In order to support the spiritual development of our children we use the format taken from the Diocese of Gloucester which embodies forming relationships with::

• Ourselves
• Others
• The world 
• Beyond

We provide various opportunities throughout the day for children to reflect and develop their spiritual thinking:

Spirituality in Collective Worship

All children and adults are invited to share worship daily and this is a very special time in our day. See our Collective worship page for more information:

Collective Worship | Denby Free CE VA Primary School

Spirituality in RE

Learning in RE affords every pupil to learn about the beliefs, ways of living and belonging, and ways of thinking of those belonging to a range of world faiths.In doing this, children learn the tools to evaluate and develop their own belief systems as they mature.

'This is Me' Spirituality group

Once a week, a group of children from KS2 come together to explore the big question of 'What makes me me?'.Each week they bring a different friend and partake in discussions and activities aimed at enhancing self insight and spirituality. The KS2 children then lead activities in EYFS and KS1 to start to facilitate this reflective thinking in our younger children.

Spirituality across the curriculum

We endeavour to inspire a sense of 'Awe and Wonder' in our children in all subjects that we teach at Denby Free. We prioritise outdoor learning and a love of the environment. 

The religious character of our school is one of the things we are particularly proud of at Denby. During the school day, the children have opportunities to stop and reflect on their thoughts and feelings. We recognise that this is not always easy, so we want to offer this page where families can come to explore and share reflections. 

Children's Mental Health Week 6th - 12th February 2023

The theme of Children's Mental Health Week this year is  'Let's Connect'. Human beings thrive in communities, and this connection is vital for our wellbeing, and our survival. When we have healthy connections – to family, friends and others – this can support our mental health and our sense of wellbeing. And when our need for rewarding social connections is not met, we can sometimes feel isolated and lonely – which can have a negative impact on our mental health.  

Let's Connect is about making meaningful connections for all, during Children's Mental Health Week - and beyond. This week is about encouraging people to connect with others in healthy, rewarding, and meaningful ways.

We tried to highlight the link between physical activity and mental health today by learning the Jerusalema dance How to dance Jerusalema - YouTube  We didn't all get moves right but we had fun trying. 

As parents and carers, you play an important role in your child’s mental health. This week in school the children will be spending time focusing on their mental health. Could you try any of these activities at home with your children?

Mindful Monday - Maybe try an online breathing/mindful activity. 

Talking Tuesday - Over breakfast or dinner start a conversation with your child about how they are feeling.

Walking Wednesday - If there is still enough light when you all get home go outside for a short walk in nature. Talk about how it makes you feel being outdoors.

Throwback Thursday - Use happy childhood sounds, smells and TV shows to hook the children and let a little of a past love of yours be contagious. For example, for me it might be a bit of Abba music and Waterloo and just dance – let them just dance, share an old favourite TV show – Button Moon or Mr Benn for me – they will love it I promise and it will get a conversation going.

Fun Friday - More dancing today. Let the children pick the playlist (within reason), miming to songs or just singing along. Turn up the volume and just let go.

For more information and resources please click on the link below: