School Transforms Chapel into Welcoming Space for the Local Community

A chapel has been rededicated as a welcoming space for families and the local community at a school in Devon.

Natasha Brooks, Head of School at St Budeaux Church of England Primary Academy, said that the vision for a community space came about when she joined the school three years ago.

She said, “It has been one of my long-term ambitions to utilise this space as an area to support our families and local community in different ways and to showcase what we offer our children and families as a school.”

The chapel has previously been a swimming pool but has undergone renovation to turn it into a community space.

It has a kitchen, sofas, and tables, making it an ideal space for gatherings.

The hope is that the chapel can become a local hub, in which different groups can come and use the space, whilst also seeing the school and building a sense of community.

Natasha said, “I have only been able to succeed in this venture with the help and generosity of our School Trustees who have funded the renovation.”

To celebrate the official opening of the Community Chapel, the school held a special service which was led by the Bishop of Plymouth, the Rt. Rev’d James Grier.

During the service the Bishop of Plymouth rededicated the chapel and shared a sermon.

After the service the Bishop of Plymouth, alongside school trustees, parents and children, including the school’s Worship Warriors and Head Boy were invited into the Chapel to cut the ribbon and enjoy refreshments in the new space.

The Bishop of Plymouth said, “It was a delight to visit St Budeaux CofE Primary School and to rededicate its renovated chapel. It’s so encouraging to find a school creating a new worship space which is also all about serving the community. My prayer is that all our places of worship would be used to bless and serve the communities around them.”

Natasha said, “My hope is for our families and local community to enjoy this space for many years to come.”

Paul Stock, Diocesan Education Adviser, said, “The use of the rededicated chapel as a community hub is a brilliant idea.”

“The space has been decorated and made to feel homely and welcoming. The use of a kitchen is an added bonus.”

“Facilitating community use of the school building is beneficial to the community as a wonderful resource, and to the school in developing links with the community they serve. I would encourage local people to experience this amazing community resource and support the local school.