Tips for taking Godly Play into schools

These tips come from Storytellers who have experience taking Godly Play into Scottish schools. They are teachers, parents and people who do this as part of their work for their local church.

Space and Time

  • The space should be big enough for the number of children in your circle. Remember that school circles can be much bigger than a circle you might have at church.
    It's useful if the school can provide cushions or PE spots to help build your circle.
  • Make the space as warm and inviting as you can.
  • It must be accessible to all.
  • It usually takes around 15 minutes to set up a space, so give yourself time.
  • If you are going to be at the school more than once, can you have the same space each time, for continuity?

 

 

Making it Godly Play

  • Threshold - can the class teacher or classroom assistant help at the door?
  • Focal Shelf - bring your Holy Family, including the Risen Christ, a battery operated Christ candle, model of Bethlehem or Good Shepherd figure from the World Communion, if you have these objects.
    If it's possible, move distracting things from behind the focal shelf.
  • Extra stories - we suggest always bringing the story of the day, the Holy Family, one parable and one sacred story.
  • Response materials - a variety of materials to set on a table. It's useful if these aren't the normal colouring things children have available at school. Carry them in portable tubs, to make it easier to set them up. Ask the class teacher to bring scissors, glue sticks and felt tip pens.
    Bring some books for the response time, too.
    Decide, in advance, with the class teacher the time available for response.
  • If the class teacher would like a feast included - agree a safe, allergy friendly feast.

 

Explain the door person role to the teacher or assistant who is staying with you. Before you start, ask them to handle any interruptions from outside the room during your sessions, so that neither you or the children are distracted.

Know where the rubbish bin and brush are, for tidying up afterwards.

And, always follow the school's rules for food and child protection.