The Right Reverend James Grier, Bishop of Plymouth, has officially opened the newly refurbished Chapel room at St Budeaux CE Primary School. Designed as a calm and sacred space, the Chapel will provide opportunities for Christian reflection, prayer, and spiritual development, supporting the school’s ethos and values. In addition to its role in nurturing faith, the Chapel will also serve as a fully functional venue for local community groups, strengthening links between the school and the wider community. 

Trustees donated £50,000 to the primary school, which is based on the edge of the city and offers Nursery and primary school education for children aged two to Year 6. The money was used to renovate the existing Chapel, transforming it from its basic origins to a useable area with brand-new kitchen, soft furnishings offering cosy corners, practical furniture, and refreshed, light and airy decoration. 

The building, which is currently used by pupils as a quiet place to reflect and worship, will be now also used by community groups to offer local residents access to children’s play sessions, midwife appointments and more.  

Natasha Brooks, Head of School, says ‘We’re extremely grateful to our Trustees for this very generous donation and to the Bishop of Plymouth for opening the Chapel for us. We’re excited to partner with some of the community groups in the area to be able to offer people a safe and inviting place to come for healthcare appointments and local events, for example the Pop-Up Play Village will offer a 90-minute imaginative play and arts session every first Monday of the month.  

Our Christian vision is intrinsic to our school ethos of supporting one another and empowering each other to do the best we can, whatever that might be. Our Worship Warriors, a dedicated group of pupils who actively embody and promote the Christian vision and values, were at the official opening as well.' 

Angela Jenkins, Director of Performance and Development, says ‘St Budeaux has been an important member of First Federation Trust since 2022, and together we have ensured there has been a constant commitment to improving standards and education for all pupils. Since the transition to a nursery and primary setting in 2023, there have been many developments including the Early Years outdoor area which offers children a break from being inside boosting motivation and mental health, and the library which was modernised making it a cosy, colourful and enjoyable space for children to enjoy some quiet time.’ 

If any local community groups are interested in using this space, please contact the school with an expression of interest including your proposed type of activity and preferred days of the week: Call 01752 365217 or email admin@sbpa.plymouth.sch.uk