Philosophy
St James is not a denominational school but provides spiritual enrichment by drawing on the wisdom from our world traditions. Pupils are encouraged to enquire into the great questions of human existence and apply this wisdom to the challenges of daily life, sharing their findings with one another.
Our pupils come from a variety of spiritual traditions and none: this philosophical approach demonstrates how the wisdom at the heart of these traditions has the capacity to unite us all. There is no requirement for a pupil to adopt any particular doctrine or belief but she will be encouraged to live generously, honestly and with integrity.
To complement this approach, St James Schools retain the service of an Hon Anglican Chaplain, The Revd Dr Rob Marshall, who has worked closely with the schools since 1995. Fr Rob, as the staff and children know him, used to welcome our schools to his church in Kensington when he was parish priest there.
Fr Rob takes services at the beginning and end of some of our terms as well as our beginning of year, Remembrance Day and carol services, working with the local clergy whose churches we use. He also comes into school to take assemblies and offers pastoral support and counsel to staff and pupils when requested.
Fr Rob is part-time Rector of Digswell in the Diocese of St Albans and a regular contributor to BBC Radio 4’s Thought for the Day.