Overview
from Melinda, Nick and Kate
Our children’s and youth work is a feature of church life at St Mary’s. We place the highest priority on teaching the children the gospel, the good news of Jesus in a faithful and clear way.
This is done in a visual, interactive and appropriate way for each age group. As the children grow older we expect them to be able to discuss and debate what they are being taught rather than just listening to the leaders. We aim to make these groups where all our children can learn the truth about Jesus and learn how to live for him.
Groups for all ages
We have over a dozen teams of people who teach a full programme of groups:
- Sundays from 0 - 14 years
- Mid-week youth clubs during the evening. (7up for those aged 7-11, X-Focus for those in year 6-9, Shift-Focus for those in years 9-13)
- Summer holiday club for those who have finished school years Reception to year 6; we can accommodate 120 children and this is always full
A number of our young people also attend summer holiday camps which are often a pivotal experience in their Christian life. You can get details of these from Melinda around Christmas time.
We also run a week away at May half term (Explorers Abroad) when Kate and Nick take the children in years 5 & 6 to the Isle of Wight from Monday to Friday.
All volunteers are cleared through the Disclosure and Barring Service process and have completed the Diocesan required Safeguarding courses.
Playgroups
During the week we run two Toddler groups for pre-school children and their carers. These are open to anyone in the community. All volunteers are cleared through the Disclosure and Barring Service process. Our child protection policy is available here.
For more details please contact our co-ordinator: .
