What is a Church School? The Archbishop of Canterbury explains:

“A Christian school is one in which the atmosphere has that kind of openness about it, that sense that people are worth spending time with, that people need time to grow, need loving attention. The Christian Gospel says that every person has a unique task to do, with God, and for God, whether they know it or not. It doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone involved has to share the same theology or philosophy. It doesn’t mean that everyone knows that they have this relationship with God, and is consciously working at it. But a Christian school is one in which the entire atmosphere is pervaded by a conviction that there is something mysterious, and potentially wonderful, in everybody.”

Our role as educators is part of our wider role in the formation of young people.  Our Chaplaincy leads the way in encouraging our students to grow into the life-long vocation desired for them by God.

Worship is vital to our shared life at St Bede’s. Our Collective Worship happens every morning in the context of our daily assemblies and tutor groups. Following weekly themes based on the Church’s calendar we explore the nature and character of God, and what it means to be human. Bible readings, prayers, meditations, drama, art, games, poetry, film and literature are all used creatively to teach, inspire, challenge and affirm our beliefs.

In the traditions of the Anglican and Roman Catholic Churches we learn together the prayers and liturgy used by both churches for centuries as well as encouraging students to find their own personal and creative ways of praying. Students are expected to take an active part in Collective Worship and have opportunities to plan and lead worship for themselves.

Our purpose built chaplaincy centre is set aside for students and staff to find a quiet and reflective space in the midst of the busy school day. Here in the peace there is space for personal prayer with and without words. Prayers and symbols, ancient and modern are utilized to help students make their own connections with God.

The multi purpose Chaplaincy space is also used by small prayer groups, the Christian Union, the Film Club, the Craft Club and for Worship Band meetings and rehearsals as well as many other events.

Our vision is for all our students and staff to live full and flourishing lives. As well as leading and planning our worship our school Chaplain is also part of St Bede’s excellent pastoral care provision and is available for staff and students to meet with privately in the course of the school day.

International Schools
St Bede's is currently devleoping its link with The Latin Patriachate School in Bir eit, Palestine.  This is a school run by the Catholic Church.  There are 480 pupils ranging from the age of 3 to 17.  Muslims and Christians are educated together.
We are running an 'email buddy' system where pupils from the two schools make friends and learn about everyday life in each other's country.  A number of St Bede's staff have visited Palestine and we are hopign to host a visit of teachers from Palestine.  We are also running an Art Project where pupils exchange artwork depicting their home and journey to school:   www.birzeitchurch.ps