A KIDDERMINSTER primary school and church has become the first in the diocese to receive a gold Church and School Partnership Award for its impact in helping ‘flourish the community’.
St George’s CE Primary School and St George’s Church were handed the award for the way they support one another.
There are three different levels of accreditation – bronze, silver and gold.
Children attend coffee mornings in church on Friday mornings, where they chat to local people.
Pupils in year six have been part of the art group held in the church and year three students have been involved in helping the community, volunteering for litter picking in the churchyard.
The school also created community Christmas cards to distribute to those in the area who might not receive many and the school and the church support each other’s Christmas fayres.
The presentation assembly was led by youngsters on the worship committee at St George’s CE Primary School with a dramatised bible reading chosen to reflect the partnership and a community acrostic poem.
Headteacher Clare Snape said: “I am extremely proud of everyone who has been involved in this partnership.
“It has really given the children a wider, holistic experience, and it has been great to see their personal development as a result.
“We are looking forward to continuing the journey, and we have already got some exciting future plans in place.
“The partnership is a key part of us living out our school vision to nurture, learn and succeed.”
A group with members from both the church and school meets each half-term to look at ways in which they can work together.
The children suggest ideas and are also involved in planning worship as well as the different activities.
Rev David Hildred said: “It is brilliant to be able to share our gifts and support one another and it’s a joy to see the next generation taking things forward.
“The school and the church have been given different resources and we can use them wisely to work together and build community.
“When we do things together, we unleash God’s power.”
