Spirituality

At Chalfont St Peter C of E Academy we nurture pupils’ spiritual development so every child “flourishes and lives life to the full” (John 10:10).  We use the Windows, Mirrors and Doors model to ensure spirituality is inclusive, invitational and appropriate. Spiritual development is integral to our RE curriculum, collective worship, SMSC development and everyday classroom practice.

Principles

• Rooted in our Christian vision and core values (Generosity, Compassion, Respect, Justice, Faithfulness, Courage), spirituality at CSPA is for every pupil and adult, not only for those who identify as Christian.

• Spiritual development is about curiosity, meaning, identity, relationship and transcendence.

• Provision must be accessible to pupils with high levels of EAL, SEND and disadvantage; differentiation, adaptation and scaffolding may be required.

• Spiritual life will be monitored and evaluated as part of our SIAMS preparation and Ofsted expectations about personal development and wellbeing.

The Windows, Mirrors and Doors model — what we mean

• Windows: experiences that allow pupils to glimpse something beyond their everyday self — the natural world, art, music, stories, other beliefs and cultures. Windows widen perspective and foster awe, wonder and curiosity.

• Mirrors: opportunities for self-reflection and recognition — pupils see aspects of themselves, their values, emotions and identity. Mirrors build self-awareness, empathy and resilience.

• Doors: invitations to respond — action, commitment, service, prayer, creativity and relationship. Doors enable pupils to act on what they have noticed through windows and mirrors.

Aims

1. Ensure every pupil experiences regular, clearly planned Windows, Mirrors and Doors opportunities across the curriculum and in collective worship.

2. Make spiritual development visible and inclusive: staff use language and tasks that scaffold reflection for EAL pupils and adapt experience for pupils with SEND.

3. Embed spiritual outcomes into planning, assessment and monitoring so leaders and governors can evaluate impact.