What Is a Church School? 

A Church of England school is a place where Christian faith and values underpin the life of the school, shaping how we learn, live, and care for one another. At Aston Rowant School, our roots are firmly Christian, while our doors and hearts are open to children and families of all faiths and none. 

We are proud to be a Church school that is faith‑focused and inclusive, nurturing the whole child academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. 

“Let your roots grow down into him and let your lives be built on him.” (Colossians 2:7) 

This verse captures what it means to be a Church school at Aston Rowant. Our Christian faith is the foundation from which everything else grows. 

Our Christian Roots 

The roots of Aston Rowant School are Christian, biblical, and faith‑focused. These roots shape not just what we say we value, but how we live those values day by day. 

We often describe our school as being like a maypole: 

• The pole represents our Christian faith 

• The ribbons represent everything that flows from it - our teaching, policies, relationships, decisions, and daily life 

Christianity is not an “add‑on” at Aston Rowant; it is the thread that weaves through all that we do. 

What Does This Look Like in Practice? 

Our Vision and Values 

• Our school vision and values are rooted in scripture 
• They guide how we treat one another, learn together, and make decisions 
• They promote love, respect, hope, forgiveness, courage, and service 

Our Environment 

• Our Christian ethos is visible throughout the school 
• Displays reflect our values and learning 
• Prayer spaces and scripture invite reflection and stillness 
• The environment reflects a place of welcome and belonging 

Collective Worship 

• Our week is deliberately bookended by Collective Worship:

1. Monday morning to begin the week together 
2. Friday afternoon to reflect and give thanks 

• Additional acts of Collective Worship take place during the week, including at lunchtimes 
• Collective Worship is inclusive and invitational, encouraging reflection, participation, and discussion 
• Everyone joins in - not simply attending, but actively participating in prayer, song, stillness, and response 

Prayer and Reflection 

• Every FGB begins with prayer 
• Prayer is part of daily school life in an age‑appropriate and inclusive way 
• Weekly prayer meetings are held involving clergy, staff, and governors, strengthening our shared spiritual leadership 

Faith‑Led Decision Making 

Our Christian foundation shapes how we respond to real‑life situations and challenges. Faith influences decisions around: 

• Supporting children with special educational needs 
• Behaviour, forgiveness, and restoration 
• Supporting families and those in need 
• Use of funding and grants 
• Responding to global issues such as refugees and injustice 

A Church School for All 

Being a Church school does not mean that families must share the Christian faith. We warmly welcome children and families from all faith backgrounds and none. 

We believe that our Christian distinctiveness: 

• Encourages respect, compassion, and understanding 
• Creates a strong sense of belonging 
• Helps children explore big questions about life, meaning, and belief 
• Supports children to develop as kind, thoughtful, reflective individuals 

Our aim is not to tell children what to think, but to help them learn how to reflect, question, and grow within a values‑led community. 

Our Commitment 

Being a Church school is a daily commitment, not a label. It shapes: 

• How we teach 
• How we lead 
• How we support families 
• How we care for one another 
• How we serve our wider community 

At Aston Rowant School, our Christian faith provides strong roots - so that every child can grow, flourish, and thrive.