Introduction

We occasionally receive questions or queries relating to magic, witchcraft and Halloween. We therefore felt that it would be useful to write a simple statement to outline the school's approach to these topics.

As a school with a religious foundation we recognise that these issues can be particularly sensitive.

References to witchcraft and magic in books

We understand that some Christians and groups would be opposed to any acknowledgement of witchcraft/magic in any form within texts for children. This would include the reading of children’s fiction depicting witches such as ‘The Worst Witch’ or the ‘Harry Potter’ series of children’s books. We respect this view, whilst it is not a view held by most/all members of the Church of England.

Literature and art which includes reference to witchcraft and magic have been longstanding features in British culture and education. Requests to remove books and materials that contain reference to magic would be impractical and inappropriate and are not supported by the Diocesan Board of Education (DBE). 

As with all literature materials we would aim to use these appropriately for children’s ages. Through our curriculum we make professional judgements about the appropriateness of any texts mentioning magic, witches or witchcraft on the same basis as we would for any other materials. We would also look to establish a clear understanding of material which is fictional or non-fiction.

Halloween

Halloween is All Hallows Eve, which falls on 31st October and refers to the day before All Saints Day (November 1st). For many years in the northern hemisphere, many different festivals have been associated with gathering in the harvest, preparing for winter, remembering loved ones who have died, and preparing for the time of longer nights and winter cold.

Halloween celebrations are increasingly becoming part of British/Western secular culture. However, many Christian groups, including churches and individual parents/carers do not agree with any involvement by adults or children in Halloween celebrations. They hold the view that such involvement encourages a trivial approach to the occult and occult practices and could be considered offensive. Whilst this is not a view held by all Christians, we recognise that this is a legitimate view. As such we wish to deal sensitively with the genuine and deeply held views by parents and groups in our local community.

Our considered school approach is not to engage with Halloween based activities in our community. At the same time, we do not actively discourage children's involvement in such activities.

 
The Church of England understands Halloween to be a corruption of All Hallows Eve (31st October), the night before All Saints Day (1st November). All Saints Day is a major Christian festival within the Anglican tradition and we recognise and may celebrate this in school. We aim to emphasise the positive celebration of these two days rather than on the secular recognition of Halloween.

Where such opportunities exist, we may work with Bishop Ridley Church to promote/offer an alternative celebration event in place of Halloween activities such as ‘Light’ parties for children and families in the community.

We hope that this statement is clear and we welcome any queries or concerns to be raised with us at the earliest opportunity.

Stuart Keep

Head Teacher