The pupils' spiritual development is excellent
Independent Schools Inspectorate Report
Independent Schools Inspectorate Report 2011:
"The pupils’ spiritual development is excellent. They are confident and value and respect each other, developing lasting friendships. They appreciate the warm, friendly atmosphere of a school with a strong family atmosphere. The Christian ethos which underpins all that takes place is illustrated by the large numbers of pupils who freely choose to attend the Christian Union meetings, and the ease with which they discuss aspects of their personal faith. A sense of spirituality was observed in an assembly, when all the pupils fell silent of their own accord as they recognised the beauty and skill of the live music played while all took their places."
At Dean Close Preparatory, the Christian ethos permeates through the whole life of the school. We believe that every child is unique, created and loved by God and so as well as giving each child the opportunity to grow as a whole person through academic work, sport, and the arts, we also aim to give each child the opportunity to hear about and question the Christian Faith.
This is done through our programme of Chapel services and assemblies, Christian Unions and other voluntary activities, but also through the day to day contact that children at Dean Close have with people who are Christians. The majority of staff at Dean Close School are committed Christians, and they are always happy to share their faith with the children, but we also have a dedicated Chaplaincy team.
The role of the School Chaplains
The Revd Libby Talbot is Chaplain to the whole of Dean Close School, so sees the children from the Pre-Prep through to the end of their time at the Senior School. She is assisted in the Prep School by Assistant Chaplains, Miss Jo Sheldon and Mr Will Cumming Bruce, who are also resident in school The Chaplain is always available to talk to children and families when they need help or guidance. The School Chaplain also organises different events throughout the year which brings the Christian faith to life for young children. Different inspirational speakers and performers visit the school to communicate the Christian message using a mixture of music, drama and dance.
School Chapel
The school chapel is situated at the Senior School. From Year 4 upwards children go to chapel every Saturday morning. Regular chapel services, both formal and informal in nature, are held regularly either in our School Chapel or in our Assembly Hall. The informal services are lively and may include drama, testimonies and contemporary music. The chapel services are taken by the School's Chaplain with regular contributions from staff, pupils and visiting speakers. Children are prepared for confirmation in Year 9 and confirmed in the School Chapel. The Chapel Choir often leads our services and has the opportunity to travel during the year to give recitals in churches and cathedrals around the country.
Christian Union Clubs
At DCPS there is a very active Christian Union. Every Monday afternoon at the end of the academic day three separate Christian union clubs meet. Each group is led by Christian members of staff who cover different topics during the term and who lead the children in discussion, song prayer and fun.
Christian Union Days Out
Regular events for members of the Christian union are held throughout the year including canoeing, rope climbing and regular Christian film nights. In the Trinity Term, Years 5 and 6 enjoy a voluntary weekend holiday in Devon and the Years 3 and 4 enjoy a similar residential weekend in the Forest of Dean.
