Activities & Events
There are stacks of opportunities for pupils to dig deeper into the Christian faith should they wish to. ‘TGI’ our flagship junior activity, is 50 minutes of fun and friendship over snacks, drinks, group games, and a challenging and relevant Bible talk at its heart. ‘Forum’, our Sixth Form discussion group, meets every week for games, refreshments, laughter and a delve into the Bible - often the setting where the deepest roots grow. We have also run Lenten Addresses in some years, with an outside speaker across three days offering pupils a change to take a deeper look into life’s biggest questions. Crucially, there are no barriers at any point of contact with the Chaplaincy; everything we offer is accessible and open to all.
The Chaplaincy offers a wide range of contexts in which faith in Christ can be explored. In this pursuit, each pupil is “in the driving seat”. Whatever a pupil decides to do in response, they leave King’s having heard that they are infinitely more than the substance they are made of, and that they are precious beyond their wildest dreams in the eyes of the God who made them and acted to save them.
Whilst society so often encourages a utilitarian and materialistic approach to life, King’s believes in the importance of nurturing something far more valuable: character. We firmly believe that the Scriptures perfectly guide us in that pursuit; the Old Testament prophet Micah had the right focus: “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly.” Indeed, in a world that is changing at such a fast pace, it is not merely intellect and skills that will see future leaders thrive, but also the ability to act with conviction and compassion wherever you are and whatever you are doing. Thus, we want pupils to think deeply so that they might explore truth, value beauty, and pursue excellence. As the Apostle Paul said, “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.”
Crucially, we also understand that being a teenager is rarely straightforward. Everyone faces challenges and upsets in life. As Jesus Christ says, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” The Chaplain, “Rev Bev”, offers pastoral support to all pupils, regardless of faith. He promises to listen, to offer guidance, and above all, to care.
Our wide-ranging Chaplaincy programme is rooted in a biblical ministry which holds the Bible to be God’s word, piercingly relevant for today’s world. In a sense, the Chaplaincy is no different from any department at King’s in that our role is to educate and inspire. Teaching the Bible, therefore, is at the heart of what we do.
At King’s we are known for our deep commitment to community and collective spirit. To that end, every Wednesday, and on selected Sundays, the School meets for Chapel. Moreover, each term, each of our six boarding houses has a service specifically for its pupils and staff. Our services are rooted in the Anglican tradition, and our approach emphasises interaction, engagement, and understanding rather than anything “stuffy” or overly formalised. Chapel is run in such a way that all present, of whatever faith or none, feel welcome and respected. Wednesday services and house services take place in St Mary’s Church, the site where we have worshipped for over 500 years since our foundation in 1519. St Mary’s remains open throughout the school day, where every member of the school community can find a quiet sanctuary and spend time sitting and reflecting. Sunday services are held in the more informal setting of the Fitzjames Theatre at 10:30am, allowing pupils to sleep in and then enjoy an epic brunch after the service ends at 11am!
Confirmation takes place each Christmas Term and, for those pupils who have not been baptised or christened, there is also an opportunity to do so. It is a hugely important moment, and great care is taken in preparing pupils. We also have good links for those seeking confirmation into the Roman Catholic Church away from home. Likewise, the Chaplain can facilitate links with other faith leaders for pupils of non-Christian faiths who desire such spiritual input.
Throughout the school year there are various “red letter day” services. In September our Harvest Service sees us recognise the contribution of our many local farming families, alongside supporting the work of the Brue Larder Foodbank. In November we pause to remember the 119 fallen Old Brutonians and also play a key role in Bruton Town’s Act of Remembrance.
Advent and Christmas are marked in December, and Easter is appropriately celebrated at the end of the Easter Term. In May we pause as a foundation for our Commemoration Day Service, where we give thanks to God for our rich history and recommit the future of our foundation into His hands.
Possibly the most moving service of all is our Leavers’ Service, when we take a moment to rejoice in all that has been and to send off our leavers with song, prayer, and a final encouragement to stride into their future with God at their side.
The moral development of pupils is reflected in their clear awareness of right and wrong. Pupils understand the moral values underpinning the school community and espouse them actively. They are courteous and sensitive to the needs of others, and behave very well. - ISI Report.
