School Chapel, Prayer Garden and Reflection Garden

The recent creation of a school chapel at the centre of the school, gives witness to the school's mission 'Christ at Our Heart' in action'

Section 48 Inspection Report June 2018

We are fortunate to have our own chapel in school. This was a little used area which now provides our school community with a place to celebrate our collective worship, liturgy and just a quiet sanctuary to sit and take a moment. Our chapel is sited at the very centre of our school, midway between our Ash and Oak classes.

We have deliberately chosen to keep the chapel as plain and blank as possible, focusing instead on the words and actions of the liturgy siting just one short quote from Matthew's Gospel (18:20) above the door that can only be seen once you've entered the chapel!

Seating consists of 12 simple wooden benches that easily accommodate a class or large group and are easily moved to form a variety of seating plans. From more formal 'pew/aisle' arrangements to flexible 'circle' time forms for child-led collective worship, our chapel is now used by most year groups each week.

At the front of our chapel is a striking window that shows a contemporary crucifix set against an abstract background, the shadows that the window casts in the chapel on a sunny day form a stunning backdrop for worship and liturgy.

To compliment liturgy and collective worship in our new chapel, a simple audio system has been installed, this can play a variety of liturgical and contemplative music throughout the day.

Prayer Garden and Reflection Garden Opening and Blessing – 1st October 2025

On Wednesday 1st October 2025, we were delighted to celebrate the official opening and blessing of our new Prayer Garden and Reflection Garden at St William’s Catholic Primary School. We were honoured to be joined by Fr Jones, Monsignor Paul Grogan, representatives from the Diocese, members of the Mark 10 Mission, members of the Central Team, and many of our parents and carers.

The celebration was a truly special and prayerful occasion. Our pupils Aila, Jeremiah, Richard and Ephraim took an active role in the liturgy, beautifully supporting the Scripture readings and overall blessing. Together, we reflected on the importance of prayer, peace and gratitude, dedicating this sacred space as a place for quiet reflection, Celebration of the Word and connection with God.

The event was filled with joy, reverence and community spirit, marking the beginning of a new chapter in our school’s faith life. The Prayer Garden will serve as a lasting reminder of our mission to live, love and learn together in God’s presence, with Christ truly at our Heart.