In Blundellsands, a growing partnership between St Nicholas Church and St Nicholas Church of England Primary School is helping children and families explore faith together in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Church at School, a monthly worship group based in the school hall, first began in 2019 as part of a church planting initiative led by Revd Keith Thornborough during his curacy. Its aim was to work with the local C of E primary school to introduce more children to Jesus and help young families get connected with the church.
Originally held outside of school hours in a more traditional format, Church at School has grown and evolved over time. Following a change in leadership and the overall team, Lesley, a former teacher, and Brenda, took on responsibility for running the sessions. Since then, the format has been reshaped into a way that sees much more engagement from children that now allows for more active participation from both children and parents in each session.
Now meeting once a month during term time, the group typically welcomes around 13 adults and 13 children each month, with a balance between families from the school and young families of the church community. Open to all, it continues to strengthen the relationship between church and school while reaching into the wider Crosby area.
Each session is built around a theme, linked to the church calendar such as Christmas, Lent or Harvest, or centred on a Bible story. Children are welcomed with fun activities like colouring and a glass of juice and a biscuits, helping them to settle in before the main session begins.
The gatherings are as interactive as they can be to ensure children enjoy every moment. Children take part in crafts, storytelling and prayer, often supported by visual presentations that bring Bible stories to life. They are also encouraged to respond in their own way, including using Lego to retell Bible stories or playing instruments during times of worship.
This hands-on approach helps children of all ages, from three to eleven, to engage at their own level, while also giving older children the opportunity to explore faith more deeply.
A shared meal at the end of each session is an important part of the gathering. parents, children and the team come together over simple picnic-style food, creating space for conversation and for friendships to blossom. The team also uses this time to share upcoming church events and encourage families to stay connected beyond the sessions.
Since September 2025, there has been an increased focus on involving both children and parents more actively, with activities and resources provided for families to continue exploring faith at home. These have included creative crafts and seasonal activities such as designing their own Noah’s Ark, making Easter baskets or baking hot cross buns.
Church at School is run by a small team of volunteers, with Lesley and Brenda sharing responsibility for planning and leading the sessions. The vicar remains involved where possible, and the school’s headteacher offers ongoing support.
Donations are welcomed to help fund future resources, ensuring the group can continue to grow and develop.
What began as a more structured gathering has become a lively, interactive worshipping community, offering a space where children and families can encounter Jesus together in a way that feels accessible, creative and rooted in community.
