A day of learning, wonder and connection at Wells Cathedral

A simple act of generosity by St Augustine’s Church, Locking meant pupils from Locking Primary School, enjoyed a day of learning, wonder and connection at Wells Cathedral. In this reflection, Jo Egitto shares how the visit came about, the impact it had on the children and adults who took part, and how it has strengthened links between school and church.

Governor and Parochial Church Council (PCC) member, Jo Egitto, shares her experience of accompanying children on a school visit to the Cathedral, funded by her parish church

Have you ever felt that you have been in the right place at the right time and put it down to coincidence? I might have done that when, as a school governor, I overheard the school secretary from Locking Primary School (LPS) speaking on the phone to the Education Team at Wells about invoices for two Year 5 classes to take part in an education day. Afterwards, I asked whether the school had to pay for the children to visit their local Cathedral and found that there was to be much more on offer in addition to entry to the building. As a member of the PCC, I spoke to the Treasurer from the village church and they were able to fund the whole day through the gift of a church member, leaving parents to pay only the transport cost – very helpful in the current financial climate.

On 25 March, 60 children and 8 members of staff/volunteer parents made the trip to Wells where, in small groups, we were able to take part in the activities planned by the Cathedral Education Officer with our RE subject lead to dovetail with the 6 week curriculum module called “Living Christian Traditions” that the classes had been studying. For most of the group, including the adults, this was their first time inside the magnificent building and the sense of awe that they experienced was palpable. As well as having a guided tour, the children took part in a singing lesson with one of the Choir Masters, processed to the Chapter House and sang a Celtic Blessing to the delight of members of the public. The children also put lots of their pre-prepared questions to the Cathedral Precentor, Tim, and did some sketching in the nave. The Cathedral team were impressed by the children’s knowledge, engagement and behaviour and we were so proud of them. The education suite is modern, safe and well thought out and equipped and it was a memorable day for all.

LPS, with almost 400 children, is not a Church of England school but is part of a multi academy trust and most of the children and their families have limited faith connections. At St Augustine’s we have a small congregation with no paid family or children’s worker but we pray that God will strengthen the relationship with our school and guide us as we plan our next steps to support them.

I end with an extract of LPS’ quarterly report, published in our Parish Council magazine, which was distributed to more than 2,000 homes earlier this year. “We continue to be grateful for the generosity and support from our friends at St Augustine’s Church. Early next term our Year 5 and 6 classes will have a special visit to the church as part of a study in RE. Later in the term, Year 5 have a visit to Wells Cathedral which has been generously subsidised by our friends at St Augustine’s. This kindness, generosity and support is building important community links for our children!” What an amazing way to let the people of our whole Parish know that their local church is alive and active for the benefit of our children.

If you would like to visit Wells Cathedral with your school but are struggling to find funding, it may be worth approaching your local parish church. You may just find that they’re willing to help support a visit as St Augustine’s did.

To enquire about dates or to discuss options, please contact our Learning Officer:  education@wellscathedral.org.uk  or call 01749 673809.