This week, 500 Y4 and Y6 pupils from 16 different schools have been welcomed to Newcastle Cathedral for leavers’ services as they prepare to transition to new schools.
The three interactive services were organised by the diocesan Children & Youth team and based on Isaiah 41:10, ‘Do not be afraid—I am with you! I am your God—let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you.’ This theme reminded children to let their faith guide them and their trust in Jesus support them as they encounter new people and experiences at their new schools.
Each day featured a different guest speaker with The Rt Revd Mark Wroe (Bishop of Berwick), The Ven Rachel Wood (Archdeacon of Northumberland), and Tara Russell (Diocesan Children and Youth Team Leader each taking a turn.
During the service, there was time for the children to join in worship together and take part in five reflective and creative prayer space activities, led by young volunteers from Duke’s Secondary School.
Tara Russell said: “It has been an absolute delight to spend time with so many amazing students from Newcastle Diocese as they reflect on their time at their current school, and look forward to beginning a new chapter in September.
“One of the highlights for me has been the volunteers from Duke’s, who were absolutely fantastic as they led the prayer activities and answered questions from the year 6’s. These events have grown every year, so we are looking forward to seeing what 2027 brings.”
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |