Schools edition 3

Schools & Colleges Autumn/Winter 2014

New Resources

What’s been happening?

Brand new primary and secondary lesson and activity resources

A look at new ways you’ve been linking with local schools

Praying for schools Corps share their experiences and challenges SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3 | 1

30 7

29 2

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

Contents Welcome

4 Third edition

Welcome from the schools team to the third edition of our magazine

22 Boots, boots, boots

A WW1 sensory story for 3- to 5-year-olds

Features 6 World War One

The answers to some frequently asked questions about The Salvation Army during the First World War

8 ISSUES

8

Featured lesson resources

An introduction to our new secondary resource. ISSUES explores where The Salvation Army stands on moral and social issues

23 The Salvation Army and the First World War A stand-alone lesson for 5- to 7-year-olds

24 Love my Neighbour

A lesson for 7- to 11-year-olds, exploring Salvation Army support during WW1

25 Miracles card sort

10 Puzzle sheets

A fun new way for children to learn about The Salvation Army

11 Ani-cams

Some ideas about how to use Hadleigh Farm’s ani-cams in the classroom

12 Hosting a school visit

Tottenham Corps and Bromsgrove Corps share how they overcame some of the challenges of hosting a school visit in a small corps

Resources 15 What is The Salvation Army?

A look at the updated range of primary resources available to order

16 FHL resources

Resources to order that help secondary students engage in The Salvation Army’s story

17 Issues

An overview of a brand new range of resources for 14- to 16-year-olds

18 Online primary

A look at the free resources that can be accessed on our website for 3- to 11-year-olds

A card sort activity to help 11- to 14-year-olds express their opinions on miracles and explore the topic further

26 Human genetic engineering lesson plan

A new lesson plan for 14- to 16-year-olds exploring the theme of human genetic engineering

27 Work positional statement and discussion A resource to help pupils aged 16 to 18 explore The Salvation Army’s beliefs about work

Your schools news 28 Funny Stories

School visits stories from Northern and North-Western Divisions

29 What’s happening?

A look at some of the exciting ways you’ve been linking with schools!

Coming up 31 What’s coming up?

19 Online secondary

Resources to look out for in the coming months

20 Other resources

32 Building more links with local schools

An overview of our free online resources for 11- to 18-year-olds A look at the other resources we offer

Seven more ways to build links with your local school

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

3

Welcome Welcome to our September edition of the Schools and Colleges Unit magazine. The start of a new academic year! A new year is great opportunity to start a new link, or to build on existing ones.

The purpose of this magazine is to help support and engage you in your school ministry.

We are pleased to feature some of our brand new resources in this magazine.

ISSUES is a fantastic resource for 14- to 16-year-olds. It explores topics surrounding the different Salvation Army positional statements. Perfect for students studying Religious Education or even adults wishing to explore these issues.

schools@salvationarmy.org.uk 020 7367 4706 The Salvation Army Schools & Colleges Unit 101 Newington Causeway SE1 6BN

4

|

2014 is the centenary of the start of the First World War. Our WW1 resources are aimed for all key stages and vary from assemblies, stand-alone lessons and teaching sequences – with a few added surprises too!

Puzzle sheets are also new. It’s all about learning in a fun and colourful way.

They’re perfect for school visits, family fun days, and kids’ clubs.

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

Our thanks go out to all the officers who have helped by sharing what they have been doing. Check out our features – ‘What’s Been Happening’ and ‘Funny Stories’.

Remember, we have been making many of our resources available online including this magazine. It’s all on our webpage – www.salvationarmy.org.uk/schools If you have any questions about any of the resources or articles in the magazine or about getting connected with schools, please get in touch with us.

The Schools Team Director – Major Stephen Grinsted Secondary Resources Development Officer – Rachel Kane Secondary Resources Development Officer maternity cover – TBC Primary Resources Development Officer – Fiona Johnson Administrative Assistant – Nadine Gordon

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

5

World War One frequently asked questions lved? ation Army get invo When did The Salv lvation Army has been From the start. The Sa e Boer War of 1899 to helping troops since th ll Booth gave advice to 1902. General Bramwe go st 1914, to pray and to Salvationists on 3 Augu rk. steadily on with the wo

How many Salvatio nists enlisted?

The records are not ve ry clear and statistics from the time vary quite a lot. As a conservative estimate , up to 20,000 enlisted in the UK and roughly 60,000 in the Allied forces.

How many were kille d?

This is not known. The death certificates only recor ded if a person was of Chris tian denomination. There ha s been some research done, recording those deaths listed in The War Cry. For the years 1914 -1916 there were nearly 500 deaths listed.

Why did Salvationists fight?

General Bramwell Booth left the decision to fight in the war to the individual. But the expectation was that all Salvationists would always ve fight for God, by continuing to ser e wer you er eth wh their fellow man. So t, visi e hom a ng making tea in a hut, doi e wer you , or a soldier at the front line se in to lead by example and help tho need around you.

How many chaplains were the re?

There appears to have been at leas t 45 Salvation Army chaplains wh o served from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States and the UK. More could not be supplie d because the denomination of the chaplain sent was in proportion to the numbers of troops of that particular denomination – despite the call for more Salvation Army chaplains! Salvationists were spr ead too thinly among the ranks for there to be more. In the UK there was the added complication of The Salvation Army not getting full relig ious recognition till April 1918, when four chaplains were appoin ted, then later a fifth.

6

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

sts help?

How did Salvationi ns, visits, munitions cantee me ho re: we ere th In the UK soldiers ency response, missing public kitchens, emerg writing ll wi homes and hostels, bureau, station patrols, r fo soldiers, cemen, clothes made service, books for servi en to . Support was also giv ing ais dr fun d an ls rce pa soldiers’ ers. Huts were built in ldi so um lgi Be ng ati er recup camps. lances, ts, field kitchens, ambu Abroad, there were: hu ten also of drivers (who were quite ambulance and truck visiting. , hospital and graveside ns lai ap ch ), en sm nd ba rmany, research activity in Ge to ge en all ch a en be s and It has en: home visits, home be ve ha to s ar pe ap but there blic kitchens, rvicemen, parcels, pu hostels, clothes for se tivals. crèches and music fes

Why doughnuts?

One of the American fie ld kitchens was running out of supplies and so they ca me up with the idea of ma king doughnuts, since suga r, fat and flour was all they had left. This was the begin ning of the ‘doughnut lassie s’.

When was the first …?

The first hut in the UK

was in August 1914.

The first hut in France was built at the end of December 1914.

The first fleet of ambu lances was bought by 28 November 1914 . In less than a month after the appeal started, The Salvation Army in the UK had raised the money independently.

These were the first motorised ambulance s used in the war.

s win any medals?

Did any Salvationist re the three Victoria Yes. Most notably we s Fynn, William Clamp Cross winners – Jame (see Salvationist 26 and Thomas Holmes July 2014, pp10-11).

If you would like to learn more about what The Salvation Army did during the First World War, please check out our factsheets which are part of the series of lessons. www. salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/schools-ww1 We would like to thank Stan Redfearn, Richard Boryer, David Dalziel, Ralph Harvey, Bernard Mends, John Stanyard and the International Heritage Centre for all their support and help researching the actions and decisions of The Salvation Army during the First World War. SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

7

ISSUES is a brand new resource to help 14- to 16- year-olds explore where The Salvation Army stands on moral and social issues through a range of exciting new learning tools.

The Resources

ISSUES includes six lesson plans, accompanying PowerPoint presentations and activities. These can be used as one-off lessons or used as a The Schools and Colleges Unit has been working series. Although these are aimed at pupils with MASIC (Moral and Social Issues Council) they could also be used with youth groups or to create our innovative and fresh secondary with anyone that is interested in exploring the themes and the positional resource ISSUES. The purpose We hope that through this resource statements further! of these teaching aids is to pupils will develop their understanding of the equip teachers, officers and Salvation Army’s stance We have also produced an eyeschools workers in providing topics and explore The catching 16-page A5 booklet; an engaging and thoughtthis includes all of the statements as well as provoking learning experience about a variety an introduction to what The Salvation Army is of social and moral issues that are currently – ideal to give to pupils to take away as well covered in Religious Education qualification as use in the lesson or to give to anyone that courses. There are six lessons that relate to the would like a copy of the statements. themes covered in the six current positional statements; these are environment, human genetic engineering, human sexuality, marriage, poverty and work.

We hope that through this resource pupils will develop their understanding of the topics, explore The Salvation Army’s stance and biblical teachings behind this stance as explained in the positional statements and reflect on and express their own beliefs following this. Our aim is that pupils would understand more of who Salvationists are, what their beliefs are and how these beliefs lead to action, as well as developing their own opinions about the issues explored.

8

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

Caring for our plan et Environment

Struggling to survive Poverty

Valuing all human life Human Genetic Engineering

A part of God’s crea tion Human Sexuality

More than a legal union Marriage

God-given purpose Work

For the com plete set and accomp of the Salvation Army Posi anying activitie tiona s on these them l Statements es, visit:

www.salvati onarmy.org.u k/uk www.salvati onarmy.org.u i/masic or k/schools

There is also a new A3 poster; this is great to give to a teacher for a classroom display or to be used as a one-off visual aid in a lesson to generate discussion on the issues. In addition, we have a new roller banner that can be loaned out for use at events and hosting visits.

Our hope with this resource and with all of our resources is that they will play a part in helping you tell the story of The Salvation Army to today’s generation, and will help equip you in developing relationships with local schools and RE departments.

To access the resources on our website visit www. salvationarmy.org.uk/issues

Opportunities to use ISSUES Here are a few ideas for how the resources could be used by your corps: 1 Officers and schools workers could use the resources when taking an RE lesson with 14- to 16- year-olds.

2 The booklets could be given to pupils to take away following a school visit.

3 If you are hosting a family event you could have the booklets available for teenagers.

4 If you run a youth group you may want to use the resources with young people who want to explore these issues further.

5 You could give the poster and one of the booklets to your local secondary school’s RE department.

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

9

Puzzle Sheets Puzzle sheets designed to help teach about The Salvation Army.

These double-sided A3 sheets are for children aged 5-8 (KS1) and 7-11 (KS2) Perfect for pupils to chill out with, during a family fun day or after a lesson, visit, or assembly.

Available in pads of 50. £3.50

Wordsearch

NEW!

Dot-to-dot

Colouring in Maze

Find the difference wit ha difference

The puzzles feature a variety of areas – worship, the Bible, history, community, music, uniform, international aid, homelessness, and symbols.

10

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

Ani-cam Teaching Ideas This winter, Hadleigh Farm has a live stream featuring the secret lives of the animals in the barn!

www.hadleighfarm.org.uk/visit-us/rare-breeds-centre/ani-cam www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/Ani-Cam_Hadleigh_Farm SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

11

Challenge – how to organise a

Corps Tottenham Age group Yr1 Number of pupils 2 classes each of 30 children What was the challenge? Two main challenges – 1) not enough leaders at the corps, and 2) poor communication skills of the teacher!

How did you overcome this challenge? First challenge was overcome by working with DCO & Schools Unit. Second challenge overcome with patience and perseverance, making sure I was organised.

What was the most enjoyable part of your event? Seeing the children have fun and learn some new things, and making a connection with the school.

What was the most important part of your event? Same as above!

What would you do differently? This experience helped to clarify timings needed and the minimum time requirement – if less time or people available for another occasion we would have a good idea of how to adapt the resource now.

What do you plan to happen next? Keep making connections to local schools through a variety of resources.

What would you say to other corps in a similar situation? Be very organised and present yourself with confidence and clarity to the school. Be realistic about how you can run an event or class and be prepared to be flexible if you don’t have the people or time you would ideally like. Important too is working in partnership – either with other corps or with other churches or organisations – although the Church Visit is denominational you may find others willing to collaborate if you are willing to collaborate with them!

12

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

school visit with a small corps

Corps Bromsgrove Age group 9-11 years Number of pupils 165 What was the challenge? The children were divided into three groups, three churches being involved (The Salvation Army, Baptist and Anglican). The challenge really was the timing – each group was with us for a maximum of 25 minutes as they had to walk between the visits to each venue; it all took place in one afternoon. Also we have just one hall – our worship hall – so everything had to happen there!

How did you overcome this challenge? We ‘flooded’ the hall with posters, information, exhibits etc. The children arrived with worksheets and sought to answer all the questions. The accompanying staff guided them to look at all the displays.

What was the most enjoyable part of your event? We left time for a short ‘question and answer’ session before the children left and realised just how much the children had gained from the visit. One question was ‘How do you know that God is speaking to you?’

What was the most important part of your event? The task set for the children was to compare the different forms of worship, and I’m sure the children realised that God can be worshipped in many different ways but that he is the same God for all of us.

What would you do differently? It would be better if we had longer with each group.

The afternoon seemed very rushed! If the school contacts me again I will ask if this can be arranged.

What do you plan to happen next? We hope to continue to have contact with the school.

What would you say to other corps in a similar situation? Definitely do it! It is a lovely experience.

Is there anything else you would like to say about your event? The children (and staff) were thrilled with their school packs. We had ‘thank you’ letters from them which showed they had enjoyed the visit.

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

13

Caring for our planet

Valuing all human life

More than a legal union

Struggling to survive

A part of God’s creation

God-given purpose

Environment

Poverty

Human Genetic Engineering

Human Sexuality

Marriage

Work

For the complete set of the Salvation Army Positional Statements and accompanying activities on these themes, visit:

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/ masic or www.salvationarmy.org.uk/scho ols

RESOURCES Curriculum linked and beautifully designed, our educational resources equip you with everything you need to lead a fun and memorable learning experience.

14

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

What is The Salvation Army?

Replacing one of our most popular resources, this booklet is specially designed for children aged 7-11, and explores common questions about The Salvation Army, in line with the National Curriculum.

Leaflet An A5 booklet, complete with colourful illustrations, the narrative follows Tom and Lucy as they learn about the history, motivation and work of The Salvation Army. Also available in Welsh

Price : £0.20 each

Poster

This large, colourful poster is great for display and includes some of the illustrations from the booklet above.

An A2 poster, showing the different aspects of The Salvation Army’s work.

All of our posters are free, but we do charge for postage on multiple packs.

Bookmarks What is The Salvation Army?

Roller Banner Three designs available This roller banner is available to loan for school visits or other schoolrelated events. Please contact us for availability and to arrange hire.

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/schools

These accompany the What is The Salvation Army? resources and are great to give to pupils on school visits.

Price : £20 for 2-week loan

Price: £0.05

Downloads

Check out our website for free downloadable leaflets, posters, lesson plans and PowerPoint presentations.

Downloads available: • Six lesson plans, linked with the pages of the booklet. Also available in Welsh.

• Assembly • Accompanying PowerPoint presentation • Additional resources

Go to school

Watch Television

Do a crossword puzzle

Buy a newspaper

Read a book

Play tennis

Own a house

Drive a car

Go to a football match

Take a photograph

Go on holiday

Make a phone call

Schools and Colleges Unit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/schools

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/whatisthesalvationarmy www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/bethywbyddinyriachawdwriaeth

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

15

These resources help students to think about the concepts of faith, hope and love and to learn how The Salvation Army expresses these values through its work.

They are ideal for Religious Education - faith in action and the work of a Christian charity - but could also be adapted for Citizenship and PSHE.

Leaflet

Aimed at secondary school pupils, this leaflet opens out into six detachable postcards.

One side introduces The Salvation Army’s beliefs, work and history, while the other side helps pupils to reflect on the concepts of faith, hope and love for themselves.

Price : £0.10 each

Posters

Roller Banner

Set of four A3 posters for general display or use with the secondary school Faith Hope Love materials.

Whether you’re doing a school visit, or you’re on an exhibition stand, this roller banner will catch the eye of passers-by.

Price : £20 for 2-week loan

Price : FREE

Round stickers

Badges

Suitable for older children and youth to accompany the Faith Hope Love resources.

Four designs available.

Four designs available.

Small badges contain the words ‘Faith’ , ‘Hope’ and ‘Love’

Price : £0.05 each

Price : £0.05 each

Downloads Downloads available:

• Plenary sheet

• Lesson PPT

• Postcards

• Talk PPT

• Poster question cards

• Lesson ideas

• ‘Three in a row’ starter activity

Check out our website for free downloadable leaflets, posters, lesson plans and PowerPoint presentations.

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/FaithHopeLove

16

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

These resources are linked to The Salvation Army positional statements and are ideal for 14- to 16- yearolds studying for a Religious Education

qualification, but could also be used with youth groups and adults wanting to explore where The Salvation Army stands on a range of moral and social issues.

Booklet An A5 booklet that includes all the positional statements as well as an introduction to The Salvation Army. Perfect for pupils wanting to find out more about The Salvation Army’s stance on a range of social and moral issues.

Price: £0.20 each

Poster An A3 poster, showing the different themes covered in the ISSUES lessons. Perfect for a display or to be used as a visual aid in lessons to stimulate initial discussion on the themes.

Caring for our planet Environment

Valuing all human life Human Genetic Engineering

More than a legal union Marriage

Price: FREE Struggling to survive Poverty

A part of God’s creation Human Sexuality

God-given purpose Work

For the complet e set of the Salvation Army Positional and accompanying Statements activities

on these themes, visit: www.salvationa rmy.org.uk/uki/ masic or www.salvationa rmy.org.uk/scho ols

Roller Banner This roller banner is available to loan for hosting visits and for exhibitions.

Please contact us for availability and to arrange to hire.

Price £20 for 2-week loan

Pens These pens accompany the ISSUES resources and are great to give to pupils on school visits.

Price: £0.15 each

Downloads Check out our website for free downloadable leaflets, posters, lesson plans and PowerPoint presentations.

Downloads available: • Six lesson plans, with accompanying activity resources, positional statements and PowerPoint presentations • Poster • Booklet

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

17

Online Primary resources 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

1 Ultimate Church Visit resource pack

4 How Did The Salvation Army Begin?

Resources are available online for free

A PowerPoint presentation and script based around the early days of The Salvation Army and William Booth.

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/UCV

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/schools-history

Set of CD and DVD £12.00

5 The Salvation Army at Work in the Community 2 Signs and Symbols picture cards These cards are part of a free online resource exploring signs and symbols. You can download the symbols picture cards, lesson ideas, a PowerPoint presentation and pupil worksheets to help your class discover how Salvation Army symbols express religious and spiritual ideas. www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/scu_re_primary Printed set of picture cards £3.00

3 Victorian Photo Collection A history resource about the beginning of The Salvation Army in Victorian Britain based on a series of photographs. Lesson activities and information accompany the images. www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/schools-history

A PowerPoint presentation and other teaching resources to support assemblies and lessons which will help introduce children to the work that The Salvation Army does in the community. www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/scu_primary_community

6 The First World War Teaching resources to help children learning about how The Salvation Army supported people during WW1. They are ideal for supporting assemblies, stand-alone lessons, or even a class mini-project. The WW1 poster is available on request. www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/primary-ww1

7 Hole in My Life A PowerPoint presentation that helps to show a positive image of homeless people – as individuals with potential and something to offer to society. www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/scu_primary_community

RESOURCE PACKS Primary/Secondary teacher packs Primary/Secondary pupil packs Ideal for projects or group work

8 Online Seasonal Resources A range of primary assemblies can be downloaded from our website. These include archived favourites and new additions. www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/Seasonal_Resources

18

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

Online Secondary resources 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

1 Hole in my Life

5 Bible resources

Free online resources to help secondary students learn about homelessness and about how The Salvation Army is responding to this issue through projects in the UK and Ireland.

An overview of the Bible and individual Gospel fact files with accompanying discussion questions. These fact files are aimed at students between 16-18 who are studying Christian beliefs and ethics courses.

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/Homelessness

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/bibleschoolsresources

2 Assembly resources

6 The First World War

Downloadable assembly plans and accompanying resources to help you lead a fun and engaging secondary assembly. These resources help pupils learn and reflect on the beliefs, work and history of The Salvation Army.

These downloadable resources allow you to lead an engaging lesson or assembly about The Salvation Army’s work during the First World War. Pupils will understand how and why The Salvation Army served people in need and also reflect and express their own beliefs surrounding the morality of war.

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/Assembly_resources

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/secondary-ww1

3 Global Issues

7 History

A range of secondary school resources surrounding issues of injustice around the world and the work of The Salvation Army in fighting against injustice.

Resources to help secondary school students engage with the history of The Salvation Army. These resources allow pupils to find out more about how The Salvation Army started, as well as learn about the lives of William and Catherine Booth.

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/idResources

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/secondaryhistory

4 Seasonal resources

8 Jesus’ Life and Teachings

These include assembly and lesson plans with accompanying PowerPoint presentations. Why not take a look at what’s coming up?

Online resources for Key Stage 3 students about the life and teachings of Jesus. An opportunity for students to investigate and reflect upon Jesus’ parables, miracles, death and resurrection.

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/Seasonal_Resources

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/Jesusresources SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

19

OTHER RESOURCES

2

1

3

6

5

4

9

7 1. Posters We have a range of posters available.

These are great for a display or to use as a visual aid in a lesson or visit.

A set of ten posters showing different aspects of The Salvation Army In Darkest England poster World War One Centenary poster Price: Free (P&P on multiple orders) 2. LINK DVD

A DVD for secondary schools featuring short films about homelessness, addictions, street work and prison work, taken from The Salvation Army’s DVD magazine series LINK. Each film features a different Salvation Army project or centre and lots of real-life stories.

Price: £7.00 3. Display Boards Available to hire for displays and events.

Price: £20 for 2-week loan (Price covers P&P) 20

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

8 4. Red Shield Lanyards Good quality lanyards at a great price. Use them for leaders or pupils during school visits, for special events or just for day-to-day wear around your corps or centre.

Price: £0.60

7. Stickers Stickers for corps school visits and other events.

Mini-Missions stickers (6 designs)

UCV stickers (1 design)

Community stickers (4 designs)

Price: £0.05

5. Frontline DVD A 17-minute introduction to The Salvation Army, showing Christian faith in action. Recommended for 13+ years. Lesson ideas to accompany the DVD are available to download from our website.

Price: £5.00

8. Red Shield Badges These 25mm badges are great for school visits, community events or fundraising.

Pack of 10 Price: £1.25

Pack of 30 Price: £3.00 9. Picture Pack

6. Pray for Schools Postcards Prayer postcards for corps prayer events, Christian clubs or prayer spaces in schools.

Price: FREE (P&P on multiple orders)

A newly updated set of 16 laminated pictures showing the work of The Salvation Army – one for each letter of our name! Pack comes with accompanying lesson and assembly ideas, all laminated and in a durable plastic wallet.

Price: £17.00

Lesson Resources All our resources have been created by teachers, and are designed to fit the National Curriculum, ready for teachers or Salvation Army workers to use to teach. To see our full selection of lesson resources, visit our website.

Sensory Story 3-5 years This activity is aimed at supporting a small group of children explore how The Salvation Army helped people during WW1. It can stand alone or be part of a whole-class visit.

For more information please visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/schools-ww1

WW1 Lesson 5-7 years This stand-alone lesson teaches children how The Salvation Army helped others during WW1 using the format of a story.

For more information please visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/schools-ww1

Love My Neighbour 7-11 years This is the first in a series of four lessons which explores in detail how The Salvation Army supported people during WW1. This lesson focuses on UK aid and Germany. It challenges the children to question how you can show love to others when you are at war.

For more information please visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/schools-ww1

Miracles Card Sort 11-14 years This activity is taken from our lesson about Jesus’ miracles. These cards can be used within the lesson as a stand-alone activity to generate discussion about miracles. To download the full lesson plan and other resources or to take a look at other lessons about Jesus’ life and teachings, visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/Jesus_Resources

ISSUES: Human Genetic Engineering 14-16 years This resource is one of the six brand new lessons we’re launching this summer as part of the ISSUES resources. In this lesson pupils explore the topic of human genetic engineering, explore The Salvation Army’s standpoint and reflect on and express their own opinion. To download the accompanying PowerPoint presentation, card sort and positional statement, visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/issues

Work Positional Statement 16-18 years This positional statement and accompanying discussion questions will help students explore The Salvation Army’s view on work and lead to discussion surrounding the effects of unemployment and the biblical perspective of work. To download other resources and discussion questions surrounding the positional statement themes for 16- to 18-year-olds, visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/issues SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

21

Early years

Sensory Story You may wish to use this after a short introduction to the whole class.

Resources Resource Sheets 1A and 1B Pair of boots – preferably walking/military style.

Bowl with warm water. Soft towels. Cushions to sit on. Cups/mugs with warm tea. Cake/doughnuts.

Headbands made with strips of cardboard – one for each child to wear throughout the story.

Each band has a soldier stuck at the front, from Resource Sheet 1A. Sensory Story Today we are going to find out how The Salvation Army helps soldiers. We are going to start with… a pair of boots. Show a pair of boots. Have you ever worn a new pair of boots or shoes? Do they fit perfectly or have you had some trouble?

Have they hurt your feet, pinched your toes, and rubbed your heels? Made your feet feel sore?

When you become a soldier you are given a new pair of boots and you have to march with them, run with them and stand on parade looking smart with them – all day long.

Role-play with the children, marching up and down like soldiers. How do you feel now, soldiers?

How do your feet feel? Use Resource Sheet 1B to support the children’s answers throughout the story. But we’ve got to keep marching! Roleplay dragging your feet and being tired.

Our feet are hurting quite badly. But what can we do? We live in a soldiers’ camp, not at home.

Look around the room.

I know! We could go to the Salvation Army hut!

Line the group up and pretend to knock at a door. A Salvation Army hut helper will answer the door.

Oh! Look at you poor soldiers! Come in! You look really sad. What’s wrong? Encourage the pupils to explain about the sore feet.

22

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

You’ve come to the right place! I know what we can do to make you feel better! Welcome the children in and sit them down on the cushions.

Bring out each prop and let the children explore each object by touching.

The bowl with warm water. How does it feel?

Leave your hands in there for a moment to really feel the water. Imagine how good the warm water will make your sore feet feel.

The soft towel. How does it feel? Rub your hands gently and really feel the softness of the towel.

Imagine how good the soft towel will make your sore feet feel.

How are your feet feeling now, soldiers? Better?

Use Resource Sheet 1B. Now your outside is feeling better, let’s make your inside feel happier.

The Salvation Army hut is famous for its cups of tea and nice things to eat.

Cups with warm tea. How does it feel? Hold the cup in your hands for a moment to really feel the heat. Can you smell it? Imagine how drinking hot tea will make your insides feel warm.

Cake/doughnuts. How does it feel? Taste how sweet the cake is. How good does the sweet cake taste?

Over a hot cup of tea and something sweet to eat, it’s a good time to have a little chat. Did you like the… I like your…

Put props away. Well, soldiers. We’ve been to the Salvation Army hut and they helped our feet feel better.

We’ve been to the Salvation Army hut and they gave us tea and cake too. How do we feel now?

Use Resource Sheet 1B. Are ready to go on our way? Salute the soldiers.

Start marching!

And that’s what The Salvation Army does. It gives you the help that you need and helps you feel better too.

Lesson Ages 4 - 7

The Salvation Army and the First World War Lesson Objectives • To learn how The Salvation Army helped people during the First World War. • To think about why The Salvation Army helped people.

Resources PowerPoint presentation Resource sheets 1A, 1B and 1C Optional resource sheets 1D, 1E, 1F, or 1G. Hut chant from website.

Pair of boots – preferably walking/military style A teacup and saucer, a doughnut, a pillow, a musical instrument, a Bible, and a small chocolate bar Seven headbands made with strips of cardboard – each with a different character on them from resource sheet 1B. (You may wish to make more headbands for more soldiers) Introduction Introduce yourself and explain that you are a part of The Salvation Army.

What am I wearing that gives you a clue that I am a member of The Salvation Army? Tell the children that The Salvation Army is a Christian church and a charity. It is an army that fights without weapons because it fights to show God’s love by helping others.

Explain the purpose of your visit – to tell the children how The Salvation Army helped soldiers during WW1. WW1 was a big war and lots of men went to become soldiers. It was a long time ago. It happened before you were born, before… your parents, teacher, me, was born, or even the Queen.

Explain that you are going to start the lesson with a story – a true story that happened a long time ago. Use Resource Sheet 1A for support. How did The Salvation Army help the soldier? It wasn’t just about sore feet; they helped the soldier feel better too.

Introduce the learning objectives to the class.

Main Activity Explain that you have brought some objects to represent some of the activities The Salvation Army did to help people. I wonder what these objects could represent. Bring out each of the objects silently, showing them clearly to the children. You may wish to be playful – frowning, holding them oddly – to reinforce the wondering.

How could these objects help soldiers? Take a variety of answers.

Introduce the Salvation Army characters one at a time, and ask a child to wear the corresponding headband. For each character read an ‘I am’ statement (see Resource Sheet 1C) and then ask the children to select which object would help that character. The child then sits at the front holding the selected object. Reinforce who each character is and that, ‘I am here to help.’ Children may wish to repeat the phrase with you. You may wish to explain more about the duties of each character, depending on the ability of the class.

Put a soldier headband on a child. Read out a soldier question and challenge the pupils to work out which Salvationist would be helping them. I am

wounded in hospital and I want to write home to tell my family I’m going to be OK but I can’t write. Who will help me? Encourage the correctly identified character (there may be more than one) to reply with – ‘I am here to help.’

I have an hour before I go on duty. Where can I go for a bit of a rest, a read and maybe something nice to eat? Who will help me?

I am going to be fighting soon and I’m really scared. Who will help me?

I’ve been wounded. I’m getting better but I’m feeling a bit sad. I need cheering up. Who will help me?

I’ve missed my train and I’m stuck. I don’t know where to stay tonight.

Who will help me?

I’m near the fighting and everywhere is mud. I just want something to remind me of home. Who will help me?

You may wish to end up having six soldiers, each sitting beside a Salvationist with an object, so you can ask them both, and the class, ‘How were you helped?’

But why did The Salvation Army help people? Ask for a variety of answers.

Explain that members of The Salvation Army follow the teachings of Jesus and believe they should help people in any way they can.

Follow-up Activities Choose from the selection below – depending on time and ability.

Matching pairs Use Resource Sheet 1D. Individually, pupils can match the Salvationist to the object, stick them together on a piece of paper and write about it. Or, in pairs, play a game of Find the Matching Pairs.

How do I help?

Use Resource Sheet 1E. Choose a character sheet and draw or write how they helped soldiers.

Colouring in Use Resource Sheet 1F. Choose a character and colour them in.

Draw an object/character.

Use Resource Sheet 1G. Choose an object or a character and draw them.

Write a question or a statement about it.

Plenary Look at the six Salvationist characters and objects again – this time without anyone wearing the headbands. You may wish to use the PowerPoint presentation slide 14. Ask the following questions – I wonder which help you would enjoy the most? I wonder which help you think is the most important? I wonder which help the soldiers could have done without and still have everything they needed? Cover up the object and character or move to take it away, to illustrate the point.

Remind pupils about the learning objectives and ask them to show their progress by showing their thumbs: thumbs down for little progress, thumbs in the middle for some progress and thumbs up for objective achieved. Ask a few children to give reasons for their choice.

You may wish to finish with the hut chant – see resource sheet on the website.

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

23

Lesson Ages 7 - 11 years

Love your Neighbour UK Aid and Germany Lesson Objectives • To know some of the ways that people were supported during the First World War. • To compare the aid given in the UK and in Germany.

• To reflect on how you can show love to your neighbour during wartime.

Introduction Ask what the pupils already know about WW1. Take a brief overview of the pupils’ previous knowledge. Repeat by asking what the pupils already know about The Salvation Army. Explain that The Salvation Army is a Christian church and charity. Members of The Salvation Army believe in helping their fellow man, and this is how they show God’s love. The Salvation Army started in 1865 so it was well established by the outbreak of WW1. It uses a lot of military terms like ‘soldier’ and ‘officer’ but its war is a fight against evil.

Explain that for the next few sessions we will be exploring the effects that WW1 had on military servicemen and how The Salvation Army tried to support them.

Highlight that The Salvation Army worked in partnership with The Red Cross. As an organisation it was not as large as others, but that didn’t deter The Salvation Army from doing all it could to support the soldiers and sailors.

Point to note – there are not many records or photos from 100 years ago so illustrations were often used.

Starter

Remind pupils of the Bible quote and reflect whether our views have changed.

During WW1, who was seen as ‘your neighbour’? Ask for three examples of showing love to your neighbour. The Salvation Army is based around the world, and this includes Germany. There it is called Die Heilsarmee – The Healing Army.

There are few records of what happened in Germany during WW1 as many were lost during the bombings of WW2.

Explain how Germany was helped by The Salvation Army. See Fact Sheet 1B. While they are listening, encourage pupils to identify which sorting cards apply to Germany. Give the partners two minutes to discuss which support was the same and which support was different in Germany. The leader of The Salvation Army at the time was called General Bramwell Booth. He had a dilemma because Salvationists were in the military on both sides. All Germans were called upon to be actively involved throughout the duration of the war. For Salvationists in other countries, Bramwell decided that he would leave it to the individual on what their involvement would be in the war. So how do you show love to your neighbour when you are supposed to be fighting them? That was a question many Salvationists asked themselves when they enlisted. How can you show love to your neighbour while being at war?

In one letter a Salvationist soldier, writing home to his mum, said, ‘I know I must love my enemies but I do not see how I can quite do this, it is very difficult. The world seems so full of hate.’

Guess the Bible quote – ‘Love your neighbour’, which is revealed on the presentation. Give pupils two minutes to discuss with a partner what this might mean. Who is your neighbour? How do you show love to them? Give time for pupils to quickly feed back.

Challenge each pair to explore a ‘Love your Neighbour’ story – based on genuine First World War stories. Give each pair a story strip, from Resources sheet 1C, with the second part of the story folded over so they don’t know how the story was resolved until they have discussed the start of the story. If they finish, pairs can double up to hear another pair’s story.

Share the learning objectives with the class.

Review each story and ask for feedback.

Main Activity

Remind pupils of the Salvationist’s letter. In a later letter, the same soldier continues:

Introduce the character – Private Tom Barker. Explain that he will be helping to tell the story of a soldier’s journey through WW1.

Tom decides to go and join the army. There was one question lots of people were asking during WW1. How will the boy come home? Tom might look and behave differently when he returns home. What might happen to change Tom when he goes to war? How might this change him as a person?

He might be physically different when he returns, but he might also be mentally or emotionally changed due to the stress and horror. Take a variety of answers. Give pupils two minutes to record their own ideas on sticky notes and communally stick on to Resource Sheet 1A. – You may require several sheets.

Explain that we will be revisiting this and looking at strategies used to support soldiers and sailors, physically, mentally and emotionally.

Explain how soldiers and sailors – servicemen – were helped in the UK. See Fact Sheet 1A. Check pupils’ understanding through questioning. For example – Why do you think this was important? What effect would this have on the soldiers?

How would this make them feel? What might happen if The Salvation Army didn’t do this? The First World War created new needs for the people left behind too. (Slide 17 onwards.) Explain some of the ways The Salvation Army supported people – see Fact Sheet 1A. Give each pair of pupils a set of sorting cards. Resource sheet 1B. Ask pupils to sort the cards by choosing one criterion from the list on the board. Give the pupils five minutes before feeding back their thoughts.

Why do you think The Salvation Army tried to help people and soldiers?

24

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

On the way back to the trenches I saw a poor German soldier trying to get to his water bottle. He was in a fearful condition. I knelt down by his side. Finding his own water bottle was empty, I gave him water from mine.

Somewhat revived, he opened his eyes and saw my Salvation Army badge.

His drawn face lit up with a smile, and he whispered in broken English: ‘Salvation Army? I am also a Salvationist soldier.’ Then he felt for his Army badge. It was still pinned to his coat, though bespattered with blood.

I think we both shed a few tears, and then I picked up his poor, broken body and with as much tenderness as possible, for the terrible hail of death was beginning again, I carried him to the ambulance. But he was beyond human aid. When I placed him in the wagon he gave a gentle tug at my coat. Thinking he wanted to say something, I bent low and listened, and he whispered: ‘Jesus, safe with Jesus.’

Ask for pupils’ response to the story. How do you show love to your neighbour during wartime?

Plenary Read through the learning objectives. Who can talk for 30 seconds on each objective? Ask one pupil to talk about what they have learned for 30 seconds without stopping. Pause the clock and substitute another pupil when there is a pause. Continue till the full 30 seconds has passed. Repeat the challenge for each objective. Point to note – this is meant to be a fun challenge and it is OK if pupils repeat information.

Lesson AgesAges 11 - 16-18 14 years years

Jesus’ Life and Teaching

Miracles This card sort is taken from our lesson about Jesus’ miracles. This is the last activity of the lesson and gives pupils a chance to reflect on what they believe about miracles following an investigation into one of Jesus’ miracles. This could also be used as a stand-alone activity to generate discussion about miracles.

Miracles happened in the past but they don’t happen today

Miracles happen but are very rare

Miracles are just coincidences or luck

Jesus performed miracles but they haven’t happened since

Miracles do happen today – some things can’t be explained by science, so God must be behind them

I’m unsure if miracles really happen

There are no such things as miracles. People remember things incorrectly or lie

Miracles happen all the time

I don’t believe in miracles because God wouldn’t heal some people and not others

If so many people have experienced miracles they must be true

Give the pupils the opinion cards and ask them to pick the one that they agree with most after reflecting on Jesus’ miracles. Pick out pupils to explain which opinion they agree with most and why.

To download the full lesson plan and other resources or to take a look at the other lessons about Jesus’ life and teachings visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/Jesus_Resources SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

25

Lesson Ages 14 - 16 years

Lesson Outcomes • To understand what human genetic engineering is and to be able to explain some of the possible advantages and disadvantages • To express your own opinion on the use of human genetic engineering showing you have thought of different points of view • To investigate The Salvation Army’s point of view on human genetic engineering, showing understanding of its beliefs and the biblical teachings supporting these beliefs Resources • Human Genetic Engineering PowerPoint presentation

man called Vincent Freeman has dreams of becoming an astronaut, but his genetic make-up makes him inferior. This clip shows how he finds out that his genetic make-up could ensure he never fulfils his dreams. Show video clip.

Ask students to consider whether they think genetic engineering could class people as being superior or inferior.

Is this right or wrong?

Review Progress Show pupils the series of images on the PowerPoint presentation and ask pupils to decide what they have had to do with the lesson so far. Give the pupils a few minutes to discuss the photos and then ask for some feedback.

• Human Genetic Engineering positional statement

Phase 2

• Card sort

Hand out The Salvation Army’s Human Genetic Engineering positional statement, and read it through once with the class.

Ask pupils then to complete an activity in pairs where one pupil highlights the positive things mentioned about genetic engineering and the other pupil highlights all of the reasons The Salvation Army thinks human genetic engineering may be negative. Ask pupils to share the things they have highlighted with their partner and then pick out some pupils to feed back.

• Gattaca video clip (www.wingclips.com/movie-clips/gattaca/be-realistic) Starter Ask pupils the question as shown on the first slide – If you could change one physical feature about yourself what would it be? Ask pupils to discuss this with the person next to them (if they are comfortable in doing so) and then to think about the following two questions: 1) What would the advantages be of people being able to choose their physical features?

2) What would the disadvantages be of people being able to choose their physical features?

Ask for some feedback for questions 1 and 2 and go on to introduce the theme of today’s lesson. Go through the lesson outcomes.

Phase 1 Explain that we are now going to complete an activity that will help you understand more about what genetic engineering is and what the possible advantages and disadvantages to it are. Give the pupils the question and answer cards and explain that they have to match the answers to the correct questions. Explain that there may be more than one answer for the questions.

For what reasons would belief in God change your view on genetic engineering? Ask pupils to discuss this in groups of four and then ask for some feedback. Go over some of the Bible verses as shown on the PowerPoint presentation asking the pupils to discuss in their groups how this might link to human genetic engineering and then sharing any ideas the groups have had. Explain that they may want to know a couple of Bible verses for the exam for this topic – give pupils a chance to write a verse down if needed.

Now show the practice exam question on the slide. If there’s time you may want pupils to write down their answers in full, or alternatively you could ask pupils to write down some notes in bullet points and ask for feedback.

Plenary

After the students have had an opportunity to match up the cards, go over the answers asking pupils for feedback. You may want the pupils to stick these in their books if there is time.

To finish with, ask pupils to think about whether they think human genetic engineering is a good idea or a bad idea, or if they are unsure. Ask pupils to stand in one area of the room if they think it’s a good idea, another area of the room if they think it’s a bad idea and another area of the room if they are unsure. Explain that they need to keep in mind the different points of view and be able to explain why they have the opinion they do. When all the pupils have chosen where to stand, pick out a few pupils to feed back.

Go on to explain that we are now going to watch a short video clip from the film Gattaca. This is set in a time where genetically engineered humans are seen as superior. A

To download accompanying PowerPoint presentation, card sort and positional statement visit www.salvationarmy.org. uk/issues

26

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

Lesson Ages 16 - 18 years

Positional statements are guidelines for members of The Salvation Army. They are based on the Bible and from this we have expectations of how our officers (ministers of religion) and church members lead their lives.

The Salvation Army believes that work, at its best, is an offering of time, service and creativity to God and the community.(1) Good work reflects the justice and righteousness of God’s Kingdom(2) and his continuing purpose in creation. Its characteristics include: Dignity – both work and worker have a genuine value to society and workers should be treated with respect.

Mutuality – workers should willingly give an account of their actions, and employers should fulfil their duty of care toward workers.

Livelihood – paid work should result in sufficient income and leisure time for a healthy life, giving opportunity to learn and to make provision for events such as illness, unemployment and retirement.(3) Work needs to be part of the rhythm and balance of a full life,(4) with time for rest, reflection and relationships.(5) The Salvation Army advocates the biblical principle of keeping one day a week free from work to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

(6) All good work, including that carried out by carers, parents and volunteers, is to be valued as service to God and neighbour.

The Salvation Army depends upon the unpaid work contributed by its members and volunteers and seeks to make it ‘good work’.(7)

and investor. It seeks to support those experiencing difficulties related to work or lack of work.

Revised November 2010 Footnotes References to the Bible are as follows: 1. In preparing this statement we have drawn upon the CTBI 1997 Report, Unemployment and the Future of Work, which represents an ecumenical understanding of work.

See also Ephesians 6:7 NIV 2. Matthew 5:6; Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8–10 NIV 3. Jeremiah 22:13–17 NIV 4. Deuteronomy 5:13 NIV 5. Genesis 1:1 to 2:4 NIV 6. Exodus 20:9-10 NIV; Matthew 12:12; Mark 2:27-28 NIV 7. See definition of ‘good work’ in the second paragraph in particular dignity and mutuality.

8. Matthew 25:14-30 9. While some are called to full-time Christian ministry as officers, The Salvation Army believes that there is not a hierarchy of spiritual priesthood, but that within each person’s God-given purpose in life Christians have the responsibility of being faithful witnesses to his salvation.

See also 1 Peter 2:9

Discussion Questions How is The Salvation Army’s belief that workers should be treated with respect supported in the Bible?

What effect do you think not being able to find work would have on someone’s wellbeing?

Everyone has a God-given purpose in life in which we are called to live in a way most appropriate to the gifts and opportunities provided by God,(8) and for some this means being called to the distinctive vocation of full-time Christian ministry.

(9) Salvationists are expected to work with integrity as an expression of their covenant with God.

How do you think working with integrity is an expression of a Christian’s covenant with God?

Exploitative and unfair discriminatory employment practices are unacceptable as they fail to recognise the value and dignity of every individual. The Salvation Army takes seriously its legal and ethical responsibilities as an employer, contractor, purchaser

To find out more about positional statements visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/masic. To download other resources and discussion questions surrounding the positional statement themes for 16- to 18-yearolds visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/issues

What does The Salvation Army do to help people who are unemployed?

What do you think The Salvation Army’s motivation is for helping people find work?

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

27

Funny Stories a group of 9-year-olds at a I had prepared a presentation for ow. I was telling the students local school in my community of Barr s to current work. day all about the Army, from the early ty of interaction, questions The presentation went well with plen ing of what the Army is about. and perhaps a greater understand morning and had been able I was feeling quite relaxed about the ed, to the satisfaction of the to answer most of the questions pos staff and students. his hand and gave me a However, at the end one boy raised the day. question that I could not answer on th’s dog?’

‘What was the name of William Boo pictures showed the Founder I eventually realised that one of the carrying a dog, hence the question. ’ but resisted the temptation I was very tempted to say ‘Pudsey and admitted I did not know. w the answer, so that on my Perhaps someone could let me kno for the question! return visit I will be better prepared Lieutenant Martin Davison Barrow-in-Furness Corps

Just to let you know, we think the General had a dog called Gyp!

We asked officers to share some of their stories of school visits. Our thanks go to the corps of Northern and North-Western Divisions for their contributions!

This was from one of our first appointments where we’d had a long and established relationship with a local school. But it was time to move on and so we said our farewells.

The following officer continued with the scho ols ministry. She started one of her assemblies with a quiz on The Salvation Army. She asked the question, ‘Who started The Salvation Army?’

Almost with one voice, as is typical of a prim ary school when they know the answer, came the response, ‘Lieutenant Montgomery.’

Major Donald Montgomery Northern DHQ

It seems whenever you are waiting to do an assembly, kids will always ask, ‘Are you a police officer?’ or ‘Are you an airline pilot?’

It’s not just kids either. I once got a pilots’ discount at an airport – the lady wouldn’t believe me that I wasn’t a pilot! So I took the discount!

Major Mark Dooley Gateshead Community Church

One thing rather amusing thing I recall from some years ago was when I was a school governor and class assistant in Treharris, Wales.

I arrived at the school one morning and one boy said, ‘Look, here’s Captain Hook!’, to which the other replied, ‘No, that’s Captain Henk!’

Major Henk Hoitinga Whitehaven Corps

, we were in our local junior school Whilst leading an assembly g-handled lon the of tion the illustra talking about family (using r we had an extended family etc. Afte spoons), and how school is to close their all en aster asked the childr finished talking, the headm they didn’t if ds han ir the see, and to raise eyes so that no one could who were living s at home (ie those people get on with their neighbour 60. of ut seven hands went up out close to their houses). Abo rovement it d on how much of an imp The headmaster commente about two years n, stio t asked the same que had been since he had las hands. The ir the sed rai assembly had previously, when half of the with the Lord’s Prayer. assembly then concluded n said to the g the hall, one young ma As the children were leavin ing Andy and lud all my neighbours, inc headmaster, ‘I get on with .’ me ind e they live beh Gay’ (pointing to us) ‘becaus unate, then!’ us and said, ‘That was fort The headmaster looked at

T.E. Andrew Tonks Coedpoeth Corps 28 | SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

NEWS

What’s Been Happening?

Here’s a glimpse of some of the exciting things that have been happening with schools across the territory…

I am currently the officer at Slough. We live in a very diverse, vibrant community. I go into a number of schools including a Sikh school and a Muslim school where I talk about being a Christian in this society. I also spend a week each year speaking to GCSE students about poverty. My favourite schools activity, though, is taking assemblies in the local Church of England school where I talk about the theme of the week and we always sing a Dougie Dug Dug song. It is amazing to stand in front of three hundred kids as they sing at the top of their voices!

Lieutenant Marie Burr, corps officer at Slough Salvation Army I’ve been going to our local high school for a year now, on a weekly basis to help deliver the RMPS programme.

Working with four separate groups in turn, a story is shared twice with each group. Some of the youngsters are on the autistic spectrum; some have conditions which affect them quite profoundly, both physically and mentally; some have visual or hearing impairment and a good proportion of them are non-verbal. However, this hour is the highlight of my week. The story is told, wondering questions are shared, sometimes we have a response time or a feast. There’s a great sense of peace and of the Holy Spirit being at work among the young people and the staff. A genuine trust and openness has built up and we touch on some deep and difficult topics. I’m often told that pupils are at their calmest and happiest in Godly Play sessions. It’s a huge privilege to work in this context.

Angela Nunn, territorial envoy at Lerwick Corps in Shetland.

Over 300 children from two local primary schools enjoyed a full day of sport as Captain Matt Butler and Scotland Sports Ministry Co-ordinator Bobby Weir ran a pre-Commonwealth Games event. The first of its kind, ‘Anderston Day of Champions’ saw children compete in five sports in teams made up from both schools. After an opening ceremony based on Hebrews 12, the infants competed at one school and the juniors at another. Everyone then came together for the closing ceremony which included the arrival of the Glasgow Schools Baton. Captain Sarah Butler led a united school choir who sang ‘Love can Build a Bridge’ and the winners were awarded medals by the local councillor and the Divisional Commander, Major Russell Wyles. The schools enjoyed the day and want to explore more ways of working together. Captains Matt and Sarah are currently chaplains to Anderston Primary, with Sarah running the choir and giving half a day a week to the school.

Captains Matt and Sarah Butler, corps officers at Glasgow City Centre Corps

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

29

NEWS

What’s Been Happening?

Luton Corps have partnered with three other local churches to bring ‘Open the Book’ assemblies to their local primary school. The ‘Open the Book’ material is very easy to use, with three main elements.

Firstly we include the children in re-enacting a Bible story. Secondly, it has a carefully worded conclusion bringing out the message of the story; and thirdly it concludes with a prayer, and the children have a choice of making their own prayer. We have also introduced singing an action song which the children love. Hearing them singing the song to themselves quietly as they file out of assembly is amazing to hear. There has been great feedback from the school from both staff and children and we find it a huge privilege to share the gospel on such a regular basis in this way.

Carolyn Gomersall, children and families worker at The Salvation Army in Luton We have worked in six primary schools over the past couple of years, and one secondary school.

We work with two primaries on a very regular basis – we do assemblies, workshops, church visits and clubs.

Three biggest lessons I have learnt are: 1) God’s timing is everything; 2) perseverance is essential; 3) working with others is ideal.

It seems to me that although head teachers are often enthusiastic to have outside agencies such as ourselves working with them, they are also very busy and under pressure and we can’t take it personally if they don’t reply to emails and calls!

Working with other churches and agencies has been a great way that God has opened doors, because it seems that heads are less inclined to be suspicious that you might be proselytising when you are presenting something that unites different churches or groups.

I would encourage any corps to consider getting involved in this ministry as it enables you to be salt and light in your community as people see you serving holistically. Don’t do this hoping it will boost Sunday school or church attendance, but do this because God will use and bless you as you represent him in this way!

Louisa Parrales, corps officer at Tottenham Corps 30

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

COMING UP IN 2014 Harvest Harvest is a fantastic opportunity to build a new link with a school. Why not offer to take their Harvest assembly? Check out our latest resources designed to help pupils reflect on the importance of giving to others. www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/Harvest

Remembrance Day Remembrance Day gives pupils the opportunity to reflect on the morality of war and the effect war has on people. We hope our resources will inspire you to give a thought-provoking assembly. www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/ Remembrance_Day

Christmas Present Appeal The Christmas Present Appeal gives pupils from a local school the chance to make a difference in their community. Take a look at our accompanying assembly resources for primary and secondary pupils. www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/Christmas_ Present_Appeal_Resources

New Year Assembly ideas that encourage pupils to reflect on the year that’s been and to look forward to 2015. The start of the New Year and new term might be the perfect opportunity to build a link with a new school through offering to lead their first assembly! www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/New_Year_ Resources SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3

|

31

7

more ways to make links with schools

Connecting with schools opens up so many opportunities for your corps to build new relationships with children, young people and their families. But it doesn’t have to be just the officer. Remember to encourage members of your corps to help you with school links too! Here are seven more ways you can support schools in your local area.

1. Give a copy of ISSUES to the RE co-ordinator.

2. Give a WW1 poster to the school.

3. Offer the use of the SA hall for a school event.

4. Offer to be a school governor.

5. Offer to have the corps band play (or singing company sing?) at a Christmas schools event.

6. Offer to run a Christmas carol club.

7. Hold a Pray For Schools event – have faith a link will come.

Schools and Colleges Unit The Salvation Army

(020) 7367 4706

Schools & Colleges Unit

schools@salvationarmy.org.uk

101 Newington Causeway

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/schools

London, SE1 6BN The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity.

England and Wales no. 214779, Scotland SC009359, ROI no. CHY6399

32

|

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES EDITION 3