Collective worship is a valued and statutory part of school life in every school in England. All maintained schools are required to provide a daily act of collective worship for all pupils, in accordance with the School Standards and Framework Act 1998.

At its heart, collective worship is a time when the school community comes together to pause, reflect, and consider important spiritual, moral, social and cultural themes.

At St Matthew's Collective Worship is inclusive, invitational and inspiring, offering opportunities for pupils to reflect on values, beliefs and the world around them.

At St Matthew’s C of E Primary School, collective worship is at the heart of our daily life and reflects our Christian vision: “Let your light shine” (Matthew 5:16).

Collective worship is a cherished time when our whole school community comes together to reflect, pray, and grow spiritually. Rooted in our Christian foundation, it plays a central role in nurturing the flourishing of every child and adult, supporting them to live well together and shine as individuals.

Our Vision & Values in Action

Through collective worship, we enable everyone to explore and live out our BRIGHT values:

• Bravery – being courageous in our thoughts, choices and faith
• Respect – valuing ourselves, others and the world around us
• Inspiration – encouraging one another to be the best we can be
• Gratitude – recognising and giving thanks for all we have
• Honesty – acting with truthfulness and integrity
• Togetherness – building a strong, caring and inclusive community

These values are woven through every act of worship, helping children to understand how they can let their light shine in school and beyond.

Our Approach to Collective Worship

In line with Church of England guidance, our worship is:

• Inclusive – welcoming and respectful of all, regardless of faith or background
• Invitational – offering opportunities to engage without compulsion
• Inspiring – encouraging reflection, spiritual growth and a sense of awe and wonder

Our worship is broadly Christian in character, drawing on the teachings of Jesus and the Bible, while also providing opportunities to learn from other faiths and world views.

We aim to make collective worship meaningful, engaging and relevant to all children, regardless of background or belief. Our worship:

• Reflects our school vision and values
• Encourages participation through prayer, music, storytelling and reflection
• Supports pupils’ spiritual development and sense of community
• Celebrates key Christian festivals alongside learning about other faiths and worldviews
• Provides opportunities for children to lead and contribute

In our school, collective worship is a special time to “let our light shine”, nurturing respect, compassion and understanding, and helping children grow as thoughtful and responsible members of society.

What Collective Worship Looks Like

Collective worship takes place daily and may include:

• Whole-school and phase gatherings
• Class-based reflection and prayer
• Stories from the Bible and beyond
• Music, singing and stillness
• Opportunities for pupil leadership and participation

Children are encouraged to reflect, respond and contribute, developing their own spiritual understanding in a safe and supportive environment.

Our Vision & Values in Action

Through collective worship, we enable everyone to explore and live out our BRIGHT values:

• Bravery – being courageous in our thoughts, choices and faith
• Respect – valuing ourselves, others and the world around us
• Inspiration – encouraging one another to be the best we can be
• Gratitude – recognising and giving thanks for all we have
• Honesty – acting with truthfulness and integrity
• Togetherness – building a strong, caring and inclusive community

These values are woven through every act of worship, helping children to understand how they can let their light shine in school and beyond.

Legal Requirements

• Collective worship is a statutory requirement in all maintained schools
• Collective worship must take place daily for all registered pupils.
• In most schools, worship should be wholly or mainly of a broadly Christian character.
• It can take place in a variety of forms, including whole-school, phase or class gatherings.
• Parents have the right to withdraw their child from collective worship if they wish.
• Schools must also provide appropriate opportunities for reflection for those who are withdrawn.