Christian Ethos: Vision, Values and Spirituality
Our vision at Merrow Schools Federation (MSF) is for every member of our community. Through an inspiring curriculum, within our safe and nurturing schools, ‘Together we grow ’ to flourish as individuals to be the best we can:
Together we grow to become resilient, motivated and curious learners
Together we grow to build meaningful relationships
Together we grow to have a positive impact in the world
Together we grow valued and loved as unique individuals
Our vision is inspired by the words of Psalm 1, verse 3:
"He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither.”
The tree metaphor that is used in our logo and across the school as a visual aid reflects this verse and is referred to frequently in collective worship, worship at St John’s and in everyday interactions.
Our vision is rooted in the following Christian values:
Perseverance - we keep trying even when the going gets tough and we believe in ourselves. We believe in God’s persevering love and reflect on our inner strength during ‘ow’ moments.
Respect - we value everyone, everything and celebrate our differences. We wonder at the diversity of God's people.
Kindness - our attitudes and actions show we care; we share in others experiences, support them and act on their behalf. We follow the example of Jesus in loving our neighbour.
Integrity - we are honest and don't tell untruths. We are trustworthy, consistent and dependable. We do what is right, staying true to ourselves and know the God sees the best in us.
At MSF have a shared understanding of Spirituality:
‘Spirituality is:
- how we grow to discover, embrace and make sense of awe and wonder in the world,
- how we grow to reflect on our relationships with ourselves, others and God,
- and how we grow in our courage to take action.’
For the younger children we use the phrase: Spirituality is about finding the ‘wows’ in the World, thinking about ourselves and others and having a go at making a difference.
At MSF we embrace the ‘Window, Mirror, Door’ framework, whilst recognising the different styles in which people experience and make sense of the world around them - Action, Word, Emotion and Symbol (ROOTS for Churches Ltd.).
The Windows, Mirrors, and Doors framework is a holistic approach to spiritual development, allowing individuals to foster self-awareness, awe, and purposeful action.
- Windows (Looking Out): Experiences that allow our community to look out at the world, fostering wonder, awe, and appreciation for life, including both ‘wow’ moments of beauty and ‘ow’ moments of challenge.
- Mirrors (Looking Inward): Opportunities for reflection, allowing individuals to consider their own experiences, feelings, values, and beliefs. This encourages introspection, often in quiet moments or shared discussions to explore ‘big questions’.
- Doors (Moving Forward): Encouraging a creative, practical, and purposeful response to the world and our own reflections, providing opportunities for action.
This framework links closely with our Psalm:
Windows: Absorbing the ‘water' from the stream (God’s world/learning).
Mirrors: Strengthening the ‘roots’ (internal reflection and character).
Doors: Producing ‘fruit’ (outward action and service).
While our understanding of spirituality is rooted in the Christian faith, we provide a space where those of all faiths and no faith and world views can flourish, ensuring that every child’s uniqueness is nurtured. Our aim is that through a wide range of experiences whilst at MSF, children and the wider community, will be able to develop a sense of meaning for themselves, express their own beliefs and respect those of others.
Our School Prayer
God our Father,
We've come to say
Thank you for your love today.
Thank you for my family
And all the friends you give to me.
Help us all to truly know,
That with you
Together, we can grow
Amen
RE in the Diocese of Guildford
Our Reserve Teachers are the Executive Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher of Merrow Infant School.