Activities for young people

Crèche
On most Sundays at the main morning service (10.30-11.30), a crèche is organised for infants and small children in the small hall to the right of the main entrance. This is supervised by a rota of parents who are themselves members of the church. Many also use the crèche for their children when not in charge. Toys, games, bikes and other amusements are provided. Parents can leave their children or stay with them if they wish. Children who attend crèche are brought into the church after the sermon and prayers, and before the peace and communion. Books and colouring materials are provided for children inside the church.		Helen
Young worshippers
Jennie	When they are ready to move out of crèche, children are invited to attend young worshippers (age range is roughly 3-6) in the large hall. Children begin the service in the church with their parents, but leave after the initial hymn and prayers. Young worshippers is led by members of the congregation and volunteer parents. The classes last about 25 minutes and involve teaching of simple Bible stories and lessons we can learn about God's love and the life of Jesus. Often these are related to the lessons read out in church that day. Generally the children will make or draw something to illustrate the story. They then come back into church and show the congregation what they have been doing. Often they will explain the lesson they have learned and leave their drawings on the altar until the end.
Junior worshippers
When they are a little older (age 7+), children move on to junior worshippers (also in the large hall). These classes follow a similar format to young worshippers, but go into bible stories and teachings in more detail. They are also led by volunteer parents and members of the congregation. Sometimes these classes take place separately from young worshippers and sometimes together, depending on the numbers. At the end of the session they also return to church and talk about what they have learned. In both sessions the emphasis is on teaching in an entertaining and engaging way.		Andy
St Barnabas Church Choir
The church choir meets every Friday during term time, and sings at the 10.30am Sunday morning Eucharist, and at special services leading up to Easter and Christmas. New recruits are always welcome providing they have a voice and the ability to read quite well. For further details please contact the Director of Music, at music@stbarnabas-online.org Choir members in sombre mood!
Other activities for children
St Barnabas organises a range of other activities of interest to children. These vary according to the season and the ages of the children. Examples include the following: Margaret Chocolate egg basket at Easter Summer barbecue Harvest festival Lighting the advent candle at Christmas Nativity play Nativity scene at the back of Church Father Christmas grotto at the Christmas Fair Bouncy castle at fund-raising events Excursions (e.g. to sea, local attractions) Please see the calendar of events for further details.
Church of England Schools
St Barnabas maintains strong links with a number of local schools and we have regular visits from school groups throughout the year. We have particular links with St Michael's, the local C.of E. primary school, and St Cecilia's C. of E. Secondary school, for which St Barnabas is one of the feeder churches. For further details about applications to St Michael's, please contact the schools directly in the first instance. For those interested in applying for church places, please obtain the relevant form from the school. Once completed this should be submitted for signature and comments to the vicar. Children of regular attendees at St Barnabas are currently eligible for these places.

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