'Worship provides a valued space for ’something special to happen’. It creates a sense of unity where all are included and pupils and adults gather as one. Meaningful moments of stillness, singing and reflection enrich opportunities for spiritual development.' (SIAMS 2024)

At St Paul's CE Primary we believe that one of the most important marks distinguishing Church Schools from others is the importance placed on the spiritual life of all members of the school community.  At St Paul's, there is an integral partnership between the content and conduct of school worship and the ethos of the school.  Staff and pupils share together in worship in order to support the promotion of our Christian values.

Collective worship is valued by the whole school community; it is joyful, exciting and thought-provoking. What happens in worship permeates the rest of school life, feeding into reflection areas, and leading to action e.g. charity theme linked to biblical stories to support this inspired each class to choose class charities that are local for the year to focus on. Collective worship at St Paul’s CE Primary School takes the form of whole school, class worships and also wider community worships so that pupils and families have the opportunity to engage in a worship in a variety of environments and therefore caters for individual preferences.

An atmosphere of prayer pervades the school, manifesting itself within collective Worship and also in the provision of prayer tables/reflection areas in each classroom.

Pupils participate through singing, in prayer, and demonstrate respect throughout Worship.

All classes will lead one shared worship each term which families are invited to (except Reception- only Summer Term, although they will have their bible dedication ceremony).

Class worships happen weekly and this provides a more intimate opportunity for worship and reflection. Many classes choose to use their class worship books during this time as an aid for discussion and deeper thinking about the theme. Class reflection areas are also used during this time and are also available throughout the rest of the school week for children to access independently.

Worship is lead in school by class teachers, the senior leadership team, Father David Chadwick from St Paul's Church, other local members of clergy and also Louise from Wearside Youth for Christ.

Weekly themes are planned each term that are linked to the church seasons.  Please see below information for 2025/2026 Worship themes and dates:

Autumn Term 2025 Worship Themes

Spring Term 2026 Worship Themes

Summer Term 2026 Worship Themes