Christian Festivals

Through the celebration of Christian festivals, pupils deepen their understanding of faith, strengthen their sense of belonging and recognise how Christian values shape everyday life.

Guided by our vision of inspiring, achieving and believing in a loving Christian community, pupils journey through the Christian year through worship, reflection, prayer and community celebrations.

The examples below provide a snapshot of how Christian festivals help pupils grow spiritually and develop a deeper understanding of Christianity as a living faith.

St Michael’s Day

As our patronal festival, St Michael’s Day strengthens our identity as a church school and encourages pupils to reflect on God’s guidance, protection and faithfulness.

Pupils develop a strong sense of belonging within our school, church and wider community.

Harvest

Through worship and charitable giving, pupils give thanks for God’s gifts and support those in need.

Pupils understand how faith inspires generosity, service and compassion.

Remembrance

Through worship and reflection, pupils explore peace, sacrifice, courage and reconciliation.

Pupils develop empathy, gratitude and a commitment to living well together.

Advent and Christmas

Pupils lead worship, prayers, readings and celebrations as they explore the themes of hope, peace, joy and love.

Through church services, the Blessing of the Crib and community worship, children celebrate the birth of Jesus and share the Christmas message with others.

Pupils grow in confidence as worship leaders and deepen their understanding of Christian hope.

Epiphany

Pupils reflect on the journey of the Wise Men and God’s light in the world.

Pupils consider how their actions can positively influence others.

Lent and Ash Wednesday

Through prayer, reflection and worship, pupils prepare for Easter by exploring forgiveness, renewal and personal growth.

 Pupils develop self-reflection and an understanding of responsibility and change.

Palm Sunday

Led by pupils, Palm Sunday worship brings the events of Holy Week to life through drama, Scripture and reflection.

Pupils deepen their understanding of the Easter story and the significance of Jesus.

Easter

Through worship, RE and church services, pupils explore the death and resurrection of Jesus and the hope at the heart of Christian faith.

Pupils develop a deeper understanding of sacrifice, forgiveness and new life.

Ascension

Pupils learn about Jesus’ return to the Father and reflect on how Christians are called to continue His work.

Pupils consider how they can serve others and make a positive difference.

Pentecost

Pupils explore the coming of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church.

Pupils reflect on courage, service and using their gifts to help others flourish.

Impact of Christian Festivals

Through celebrating the Christian year, pupils:

  • Develop a deep understanding of Christian beliefs, festivals and traditions.
  • Grow in confidence as leaders and participants in worship.
  • Strengthen their sense of belonging within school, church and community.
  • Reflect on their own beliefs, values and responsibilities.
  • Recognise how faith inspires service, compassion and courageous action.
  • Flourish spiritually, academically and personally within a loving Christian community.

 

“Advent helped me think about how I can let my light shine.”

Year 4 Pupil

“Learning about Easter helped me understand why Christians believe in hope.”

Year 2 Pupil

Our Christian Journey

These examples represent just some of the ways pupils engage with the Christian year at St Michael’s. Through worship, reflection, church partnerships and pupil leadership, children develop a rich understanding of Christianity as a living faith and are encouraged to let their light shine in school, church and the wider world.

 

Easter 

Year 2 focused on the symbolism of the cross to Christians and made nature crosses in our school grounds:

Reception class enjoyed learning about Hot Cross Buns and why Christians eat them at Easter!

 

Easter decorations at Grimsargh St Michael’s Church and Easter Gardens.