Collective Worship

Introduction

At Al Ameen Primary School, collective worship is a vital aspect of our school life, reflecting our Islamic ethos and values. It aims to inspire spiritual growth, promote moral understanding, and cultivate a sense of community among pupils and staff. This policy outlines our approach to collective worship and the relevant legal framework governing independent schools in the UK.

Legal Context

Independent schools in the United Kingdom, including Islamic schools like Al Ameen Primary School, are not bound by the same requirements for collective worship as state-funded schools under the Education Act 1996. However, we are required to comply with The Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014, which mandates that independent schools must promote spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development (SMSC) of pupils.

State-funded schools must provide an act of daily collective worship that is broadly Christian in nature. However, independent faith schools have the freedom to design worship practices according to their religious beliefs. Furthermore, in independent schools, parents do not have the right to withdraw their children from collective worship as they might in state schools.

Aims of Collective Worship

Our collective worship sessions are designed to:

• Strengthen the Islamic faith and identity of pupils.
• Foster spiritual reflection, gratitude, and mindfulness of Allah (SWT).
• Develop an understanding of key Islamic teachings and values such as compassion, honesty, justice, and respect for others.
• Promote a sense of belonging, unity, and mutual respect within the school community.
• Encourage pupils to reflect on moral and ethical issues from an Islamic perspective.

Organisation of Collective Worship

Frequency:
Collective worship takes place daily as part of the school’s routine. This may include assemblies, prayer times, and other forms of spiritual reflection.

1. Content:
   Worship sessions are structured around core Islamic principles and teachings. Activities may include:
   • Recitation of Qur’anic verses and Hadith.
   • Reflection on Islamic values and key moral lessons.
   • Dua (supplications) and collective remembrance of Allah (SWT).
   • Stories of the Prophets (peace be upon them), Islamic historical figures, and role models.
   • Recognition of important Islamic events and festivals (e.g., Eid ul-Fitr, Eid ul-Adha, Islamic New Year).
2. Participation:
   All pupils and staff participate in collective worship. We encourage respectful engagement, with pupils given opportunities to contribute through readings, reflections, or discussions.
3. Adaptations:
   While our worship is rooted in Islamic tradition, we respect the diverse experiences and backgrounds of all members of the school community. Worship practices are age-appropriate and take into account the developmental needs of our pupils.

Responsibilities

• Headteacher:
  The headteacher ensures that the organisation and content of collective worship align with the school’s Islamic ethos and legal responsibilities.
• Staff:
  Staff are responsible for supporting and participating in collective worship. Those leading sessions are tasked with planning meaningful and engaging activities that reflect Islamic teachings.
• Governors:
  The school’s governors oversee the implementation of the collective worship policy and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

Monitoring & Review

The effectiveness of collective worship is regularly monitored through:

• Observations of collective worship sessions.
• Feedback from pupils, staff, and parents.
• Periodic reviews of the policy by the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and governors.

This policy is reviewed annually to ensure that it continues to meet the needs of the school community and complies with relevant legislation.

Conclusion

Collective worship at Al Ameen Primary School is central to nurturing the spiritual and moral development of our pupils. By embedding Islamic values in daily practice, we aim to equip our pupils with a strong faith foundation that will guide them throughout their lives.