Following the success from previous years, St John’s Church of England Primary School celebrated their Pupil Chaplains during their Harvest Festival service. Before the new chaplains could be commissioned, the school celebrated those that have just completed their year of chaplaincy. They were thanked for their efforts and presented with a certificate of appreciation.

Then eight students from the Year 5 class at St John’s School, were commissioned as the new pupil chaplains for 2025-2026 in a special ceremony. So many children put themselves forward for this prestigious role which is proving more popular every year. The children who had volunteered for the role were carefully chosen by staff and peers and have received training over the last few weeks. Today they made their promises in front of the whole school, as well as their families and friends. These promises were created during their training with school chaplain, Helena Power. 

Each chaplain was then presented with a small wooden cross, a badge, and certificates. The previous pupil chaplains then ceremonially handed over their tabards. Reverend Colin led the celebration with blessings, praying for the new chaplains and thanking the retiring ones for their dedication. The Harvest collection for local food banks was also blessed by Reverend Colin and the pupils.

Pupil chaplains have a special responsibility to care for the school and live by the school values showing respect, service, compassion, endurance, and friendship, while having a lot of fun serving the local community and presenting Bible stories in assemblies. Pupil chaplains have now supported our school for a number of years, and it is a very special and important role for our school. They strive to help all students and staff and share joy and hope in our community.

With thanks to the schools dedication to Christian values, all staff and pupils, especially the chaplains, have ensured that the school was such a success during last year's inspection by SIAMS, and their comment was that the school is living up to its foundation as a Church School, and is enabling pupils and adults to flourish while providing a joyful and family orientated environment.