Scenario 6
You have made approaches to your local school about assemblies and RE. You have been accepted, but given a list of 'dos' and 'don'ts', including only very limited reference to Christianity. How do you respond?
Clues
- Talk to the Headteacher and Chair of Governors openly about their approach. Be prepared to hear that they have anxieties. Build on the strength of their initial invitation. What were they expecting? Remember that expectations will differ in Church and County schools.
- Identify your role as a Christian minister and show how this can contribute to the pupils' spiritual development.
- Make it clear that you will take an inclusive approach to prayer.
Resources
The Diocesan Advisers may be able to help.
Further advice on prayer in multi-faith schools:
- The Multi-Faith Church School
Brown, A
1992 (Second impression 1997), The National Society ISBN 0 901 81926 3- Praying Their Faith
Johnson, C (ed)
1999, CEM ISBN 1 851 00451 8
Refer back to the school's policy on worship.