themed guided visit information - st paul's cathedral · •find out about st paul,t his life,...

www.stpauls.co.uk

SUITABLE FOR SUITABLE FOR SUITABLE FOR

Visit InformationThemed Guided

for Schools & Community Groups

SCHOOLS & FAMILIES DEPARTMENT

www.stpauls.co.uk

Contents(Interactive contents. Click on subject to go directly to that page)

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Thank you for your enquiry. I lookforward to welcoming you to ourwonderful Cathedral.” The Schools & Families Department seeks to deliver a professional service to all schools, parishes, community and family groups. We aim to make your visit educational, inspirational, memorable and fun!

“

Welcome

Introduction 3

Booking a Visit 4

Themed Guided Visits 5and Workshops

World of Worship 6

Bible Alive 6

Patterns of Faith 7

Christianity Through Art 7

Majestic Mosaics 8

Let’s Investigate Easter 8

A Christmas Journey 9

Be a Pilgrim 9

A Cathedral at War 10

London’s Burning 10

The Victorian 11Experience

Story Telling Spectacular 11

Shape Up! 12

Let’s Build a Cathedral! 12

Climbing the Dome 13

Self-Guided Visits 14

Risk Assessment Advice 14

Helpful Guidelines 15

Frequently Asked 16Questions

INSET 17

R.E.HistoryEnglish, History & REMaths & Science

JANET MARSHALL, HEAD OF SCHOOLS & FAMILIES

Introduction

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About the CathedralSt Paul’s is a famous, busy place. It is often described as ‘theNation’s Church’ and is the ‘Mother Church’ for theDiocese of London. It is the seat of the Bishop of Londonand a centre of prayer, worship and debate for the peopleof the city and its surrounding boroughs. It is also usedannually as a venue for concerts, productions andcelebrations of all kinds. Most of all it is yourCathedral!

We want you to have a great time here. It is essentialthat you plan your visit carefully and we hope thisbrochure will help you to do so.

What’s on offer for schools,families and community groupsat St Paul’s?In this brochure you will find a selection of themed, guidedvisits for Key Stages 1 and 2. All are adaptable for SEN,parish and community groups. The programmes endeavourto enhance and supplement your teaching across thecurriculum, especially:-

RE – Christianity, Places of Worship, Symbolism, Beliefs andPractices, Festivals and Pilgrimage.

History – The Great Fire of London, World War 2, Life inVictorian Times.

Maths and Science – Shape, Design, Forces, Symmetry,Pattern, Measurement.

Art – Religious Art, Icons, Mosaics, Sculpture.

Personal, Social, Cultural and Spiritual Development– lots of opportunities for discussion, debate and reflection.

Our commitment to you• A PROFESSIONAL SERVICE your visit will be led

by trained staff and volunteers.

• VALUE FOR MONEY we keep our visit fees as lowas possible.

• SECURE FACILITIES we provide a cloakroom,classroom and facilities.

• LEARNING OBJECTIVES when you book a visitthese will be discussed and you will be asked toprovide further details on your booking form.

• PREPARATION/RISK ASSESSMENT VISITS FORTEACHERS we provide a teacher’s pass so that youcan visit in advance to carry out your risk assessmentand plan your visit. Tell us if you would like to arrange aguided preparation tour, led by our staff. These may bebooked in advance, after school or in working hoursduring term time and some school holidays.

• WE ASK FOR YOUR FEEDBACK you will be givena form on the day of your visit. Please complete andreturn it so that we can continue to monitor anddevelop our visits.

• TRAILS & RESOURCES may be found on ourwebsite www.stpauls.co.uk in the ‘Learning & Education’,then ‘Schools & Families’/’Self-Guided Visits’ section.

Advance booking is essential forboth guided and self-guided visits!You are advised to book at least half a term in advance. Weget extremely busy, especially in the Summer term.

PACKED LUNCHES you are welcome to eat themhere but we cannot guarantee classroom space for allgroups. We will inform you on the day about where yourgroup will be eating i.e. Crypt, classroom or garden (ifweather permits).

I hope that this booklet will provide you with all theinformation you require. Please take time to read itcarefully and share it with your leaders/helpers. Riskassessment advice is also provided in this brochure.Do get in touch with us if you require moreinformation.

Click anywhere on page to go back to contents

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How to Book The booking process – please readcarefully!• Call or email us to make a preliminary booking.

• A booking form will be sent to you by email.Please complete and return it by email as soonas possible i.e. within two weeks of receipt.Please attach your completed risk assessment(or send that in later – the important thing isto get your form back quickly!)

N.B. If we do not receive your booking formwithin two weeks, the preliminary bookingwill be cancelled and the date will be offeredto another school.

• You will receive a confirmation letter by email

• A ‘Teacher’s Access Pass’ will be emailed to youfor your preparation and risk assessment visit

• You will be sent a map showing where to reportin at the Crypt desk with your class. Pleasecheck this out during your preparation visit

PaymentPlease refer to our price list that will be emailedto you (also available online).

We request payment in advance of yourvisit. You will be emailed an invoice with yourbooking confirmation. Please arrange for paymentto be made as soon as possible. Cheques shouldbe made payable to ‘Dean and Chapter’.

Below: The Oculus filmroom in the Crypt. You may wishto visit this after your guided visit.There are four short films aboutthe history and life of theCathedral, including a virtualclimb up the Dome. Allow anextra 10 minutes for this.

CancellationsIf you need to cancel your booking you must let us know at least FOUR WEEKSbefore your visit date. We regret that any cancellations made after this periodwill be charged for, in full.

St Paul’s Cathedral Schools & Families Department Telephone: 020 7246 8353 Fax: 020 7246 8327 [email protected]

Your Themed Guided Visit

Under the Dome

Mosaics up close


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All our visits are linked to thePrimary Curriculum and LocalAgreed Syllabi for R.E./Non-statutoryNational Framework for R.E. They may also be adapted forParish/Community Groups.

To coincide with your guided visit, youmay wish to book one of our activityworkshops, such as:

• Design and make a glass tile mosaic

• ‘Patterns of Faith’ – badges & book marks

• Drama and music

• Stained glass window designs/illuminatedletters on parchment

• Christmas and Easter craft activities

• Christian artefacts/vestments and vesselhandling sessions

Contact the department for further information.


Creating a mosaic design

The Dome Altar


Visits linked to units ofstudy for R.E.

AIMS OF THE VISIT:To bring the Cathedral alive toyour children as a place of prayerand worship.

To enhance your teaching ofNational Framework for R.E./localsyllabi units on: practices andways of life in religions, worship,beliefs, symbols and religiousexpression, inspirational figures,sacred places, teachings andauthority, the journey of life andsacred occasions for believers.

DURATION:

60 mins. Allow an extra 45 minutes if youwish to visit the Dome andGalleries.

KEY STAGE SUITABILITY:KS1and KS2

World of WorshipYou may wishto request ashorter versionof this visitwhich lasts for45 minutes.Please indicatewhen bookingif you requirethis option.The price perpupil remainsthe same.

SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

A guided trail around the Cathedraland Crypt that will enhance yourChristianity/Places of Worship studyunits. It will include:• Furniture and objects used for worship (altar,

lectern, font, crosses, pulpit)

• Places and methods used for prayer e.g.candles, icons

• Symbolic actions and objects

• Practical activities with vestments, vessels forHoly Communion, artefacts, Baptismdemonstration

• Information about the Cathedral’s daily patternof worship, prayer and festivals

• Time in the Quire to discover its purpose andto view the ceiling mosaics (binocularsavailable)

• Light a candle and reflect

Optional extrasMeet a priest and find out about his/her workand vocation. Please ask for this when you book.

A badge/book mark design workshop, mosaic orstained glass design workshop. Please request whenyou book.

After a short introduction, children willbe led around the Cathedral to:

• Learn about the library of books that make upthe Bible and its many translations

• Hear the story of Mary Jones that led to theformation of the British and Foreign BibleSociety

• Hear a parable of Jesus and see the mosaicdesigns that depict the Easter and creationstories

• View William Holman Hunt’s famous painting‘The Light of the World’

• Find out about St Paul, his life, journeys andletters

6 St Paul’s Cathedral Schools & Families Department Telephone: 020 7246 8353 Fax: 020 7246 8327 [email protected]

60mins


AIMS OF THE VISIT:To explore why the Bible isimportant for Christiansworldwide, to learn about itscontents and find out how it isused in worship.

This visit is closely linked to R.E.study units in the NationalFramework such as: ‘Why aresome stories and sacred textsimportant in religion?’ Teachingsand authority/inspirational figuresfor believers/symbolism/prayerand worship.

DURATION:


KEY STAGE SUITABILITY:Upper KS1and KS2

Bible Alive SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

90mins

The Tyndale Bible

SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

45mins


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Children will:• Investigate wood/stone carvings, crosses,

ironwork, floor/ceiling mosaics and discovertheir symbolism and meaning

• Find out about symbolic patterns, shapes andimages

• Explore the symbolic meaning and use of light,water, bread, wine, vestments and music inworship

• Find out about symbols that depict St Paul andthe Cathedral

• Discover the daily pattern of worship andmusic

Children will:• Be shown paintings, objects, artefacts, floor

patterns, sculptures and mosaics

• Explore how decorative art informs Christiansabout Bible stories and helps them to pray andworship

• Investigate icons from the Russian Orthodoxtradition and their purpose

• Explore Sir Christopher Wren’s unique designidea ‘beauty versus functionality’



AIMS OF THE VISIT:To discover signs and symbols inthe Cathedral and to exploretheir meaning as a key part of theChristian faith.

DURATION:60 mins. Allow an extra 45 minutes if youwould like to book a ‘Signs &Symbols’ badges and book marksworkshop.

Allow an extra 45 minutes if youwish to visit the Dome andGalleries.


Patterns of Faith Explore Signs & SymbolsSUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

60mins


AIMS OF THE VISIT:To discover, observe and respondto the amazing examples of artand design in the Cathedral.

DURATION:60 mins. If you would like to book astained glass window design ormosaics workshop afterwards,allow an extra 45 minutes. Pleaserequest when you book.


KEY STAGE SUITABILITY:KS2

Christianity Through ArtSUITABLE FOR

60mins

Mother & Child by Henry MooreThe Light of the World

SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR



AIMS OF THE VISIT:To enable children to discoverthe Cathedral’s wonderfulmosaics as a decorative art formthat aims to enhance prayer andworship.

DURATION:

90 mins. (Guided trail with mosaicworkshop.)



Majestic MosaicsSUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

Our wonderful mosaic designs onthe Quire ceiling, quarter domesand Crypt floor are a unique featureof the Cathedral. During this visit:• They find out about the history of mosaics,

dating back to Greek and Roman times andfind out how they were designed and puttogether

• They look for symmetry and repeatingpatterns

• They get a close up view of the ceiling mosaicsusing binoculars!

• Back in our classroom they design their own10cm x10cm square or cross shaped mosaic,using authentic glass tiles

In the classroom Children will learnabout Easter customs around theworld. As they are led round the Cathedral, theEaster story unfolds through captivating storytelling and drama:

• Palm Sunday – they re-enact the day Jesus rodeinto Jerusalem

• The Feast of the Passover is set out and theydiscover how this meal turned into Jesus’ LastSupper with his Disciples

• The cross is carried as they reflect on the firstGood Friday

• In the Quire they hear about the wonder ofthe Resurrection

• A candle is lit as thoughts are gathered beforedeparture


90mins


AIMS OF THE VISIT:To ‘bring alive’ the festival of Easterand to explore its importance forChristians across the worldthrough dramatised story telling,artefacts and discussion.

DURATION:

60 mins. Allow an extra 45 minutes for anEaster craft workshop. Pleaserequest when you book.



Let’s Investigate Easter SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

60mins

SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

Crypt floor mosaics

Easter mosaics


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The perfect way to bring theChristmas story alive! This visit isavailable in November andDecember. It links with key R.E. themes suchas: the Bible, key figures in the Christian faith,Christian beliefs and practices, festivals,celebrations, spiritual development.

• In a short introduction children will explorethe season of Advent and its customs

• On a guided journey around the Cathedralthey meet characters from the Christmas storysuch as Mary, Joseph and a shepherd

• Children dress as Maji (the three kings) andlead a procession to the crib where theycomplete the Nativity tableau with Mary andJoseph

A festive craft workshop then follows in the classroom.

On arrival the children are met by amedieval pilgrim leader whointroduces them to pilgrimage pastand present. They then embark on a journeyaround the Cathedral. On the way they:

• Explore the meaning of pilgrimage

• Make a pilgrim badge

• Experience many interesting areas, artefactsand objects such as: the font, altars for HolyCommunion, the pulpit and lectern, candles,crucifixes, sculptures, paintings, tombs,memorials and more



AIMS OF THE VISIT:To enable children to explore themeaning of this worldwideChristian festival through storytelling and role play.

DURATION:

105 mins. KEY STAGE SUITABILITY:KS1and KS2

A Christmas Journey SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

105mins

Be a Pilgrim A Journey of Discovery in the Cathedral

75mins


AIMS OF THE VISIT:To find out about pilgrimage andits importance in Christianity.

To learn about Rites of Passage for Christians.

DURATION:



N.B. A great pilgrimage resource book for KS1/2: ‘Special People, Special Places – Making Connections Between Pilgrimage and Every Day Life’ by JanetMarshall. Downloadable from www.brf.org.uk, ‘Barnabas books for schools’ section. It contains many stories, dramas and cross curricular activities based on placesof pilgrimage around Britain. It also includes a section about pilgrimage journeys in the Bible.

SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR


Visits linked to units ofstudy for History

AIMS OF THE VISIT:To bring alive this popular WorldWar 2 History topic and increaseknowledge and understandingabout the impact it had on thelives of Londoners.

DURATION:



A Cathedral at War SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

• On arrival in the Crypt, the children are metby Mr Bill Pinner, a volunteer Fire Watcher,who spent many night hours on the roof of StPaul’s during the Blitz

• Bill’s wife Daphne dresses a pupil as anevacuee. She tells them about every day life, airraids and rationing

• Bill teaches them the Fire Watcher’s Drill, takesthem on a journey around the Cathedral andshows them where bombs fell. Hedemonstrates how to deal with the dreadedIncendiary bomb and gas mask

• The visit ends with a time of quiet reflectionand the lighting of a candle

• The children will be taken on a guided walkaround the Crypt and Cathedral floor to findmemorials from Old St Paul’s that survived theGreat Fire

• Through story telling, the children learn abouthow the fire started in Pudding Lane andquickly spread

• With the aid of hats, role play scripts and aleather bucket they are taken back in time toimagine and act out what it was like during thefire

• They will sit under the great Dome and learnabout its symbolic meaning, then lie down inthe Quire to see the amazing mosaic designson the ceiling


60mins


AIMS OF THE VISIT:To bring this popular Historytopic to life and discover how SirChristopher Wren designed thesplendid masterpiece that istoday’s Cathedral, following theGreat Fire.

DURATION:



London’s Burning! SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

60mins

The Blitz on London in WW2

Discover the Great Fire of London

The city in flames – 1666

Where the fire began

SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

Mr Bill Pinner




AIMS OF THE VISIT:To bring alive the story ofFlorence Nightingale’s life andwork.

To learn more about the life andeducation of poor children,fashions/fabrics, pastimes anddifferences between rich andpoor in Victorian times.

DURATION:

90 mins.Allow an extra 45 minutes if youwish to visit the Dome andGalleries.

KEY STAGE SUITABILITY:Upper KS2

The Victorian Experience SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

90mins

Spectacular Story Telling

60mins

Visit linked to English,History & RE

AIMS OF THE VISIT:To bring Bible stories, storiesfrom our historical past and thelife stories of famous peoplealive, through characterisation,costumes, props, artefacts andreflective story telling.

DURATION:



Includes Florence Nightingale, a schoolroom sessionand a costumed fashion parade!This visit brings alive the every daylife of a working class Victorian child.The children will also learn aboutthe Cathedral to enhance your R.E.Christianity/Places of Worship units.• The children will meet Florence

Nightingale in the Crypt. She will tell themof her privileged upbringing, education, traveland lifestyle

• Florence also explains how she began to trainnurses and went out to the Crimea. Shedresses a child in one of her Scutari nurseuniforms

• They are taken by Florence, on a walk aroundthe Cathedral, to see the amazing changesmade as a result of Queen Victoria’s requests

And then…Our very own strict, Victorian School Master willtake the children into the Crypt classroom for ataste of Victorian school life!

The session includes copy writing on slates, rote

learning, drill exercises and a taste of commonpunishments. Children also see a range ofcommon household implements and toys and find out how they were used.

Eight lucky children will also model Victoriancostumes, as worn by rich and poor.

During a guided walk around thebuilding, children will meet manycharacters and hear theirenthralling stories. This is a great way tobring English (speaking and listening) alive and toteach about key figures in Christianity (for R.E.).National Heroes (History) are also brought to life,plus other famous people associated with St Paul’s.

Choose three stories:• ‘Bombs Away! ’The Fire Watcher’s Tale, set in

WW2 London

• ‘The Lady with the Lamp’ – FlorenceNightingale’s life and work

• ‘Building a Fabulous Geometric Staircase’ – TheStory of a Master Mason

• ‘Blinded by the Light’ – The Story of St Paul

• ‘Every Picture Tells a Story’ – The Story of theFamous ‘Light of the World’ Painting, by WilliamHolman Hunt

• ‘Parables of Jesus’ – Hear some Parables andthink about their meanings

• ‘My Story is His Story’ – St Mary recalls theevents of Jesus’ life.

• ‘Stones, Arches anda Great Big Dome!’– The Story of SirChristopher Wren,designer of St Paul’sCathedral

SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

Meet Florence nerW rehpotsirhC riSluaP tS


Visits linked to units ofstudy for Maths andScience

AIMS OF THE VISIT:To link the mathematical topics ofshape, pattern, symmetry andmeasurement with the history ofthe Cathedral, as children exploreand experience the manyinteresting and beautiful placesinside it.

DURATION:

60 mins. Allow an extra 45 minutes for amosaics /stained glass windowworkshop. Please request whenyou book.



Shape UpSUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

• In a short introduction the children will handleand identify common shapes

• They will look for symmetrical designs, colourand repeating patterns, arches, pillars, anddecorative plaster work/ironwork

• They will investigate height, width and length

• They will view the beautiful ceiling and floormosaics and think about how these depictBible stories

• They will look at materials used, such as:stone, wood and metal with an opportunity toexamine texture and shape

• They will see the famous Geometric, spiralstaircase (as seen in both Harry Potter andSherlock Holmes’ movies)

Added extra: Why not book a mosaics/stainedglass window design workshop? (Allow 45-50 minutesafter the trail) Please request when you book.


60mins

Visits linked to units ofstudy for Maths andScience

AIMS OF THE VISIT:To enhance Science teachingabout forces, materials and theirproperties, light, sound, shapes,size and measurement.

To enable children to discoverand enjoy Wren’s masterpiece ofdesign.

DURATION:



Let’s Build a Cathedral! SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

60mins

As the children are led around theCrypt and Cathedral they will:• Build an arch and find out about the forces and

skills involved!

• Find out about the symbolism of light, a keyelement of Wren’s design

• Create the structures that make up theCathedral using their own bodies!

• Discover materials such as: stone, wood, metaland their properties

• Experience the special places, memorials, artand objects that make St Paul’s such aninspiring, sacred space for prayer and worship

• View the amazing Geometric Staircase and the‘Great Model’ up in the Triforium

• Find out about Wren’s use of ‘sacredgeometry’

SUITABLE FOR

SUITABLE FOR

Under the Dome, mosaic tiles

Floor patterns


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Climbing the World FamousDome and Galleries

As an exciting addition to your visityou may wish to include this. It is agreat way to get an amazing view ofthe city from on high.Supervision is VitalYou will be required to escort your pupils to theWhispering Gallery plus the external Stone andGolden Galleries and supervise them at all times.Our staff will not accompany you on theclimb. Groups must have at least 1 adult toevery 10 pupils.

Be prepared!Most children of all ages climb to all areaswithout problems. Please check it out foryourself in your preparation visit. Shouldanyone in your group be nervous/suffer fromvertigo/mobility problems/asthma, please ensurethat adults are available to remain with them inthe Cathedral. They must not be leftunaccompanied.

Please refer to the risk assessment advice inthis booklet. Due to fire regulations, weregret there is no lift available. The lift mayonly be used to enable those with special needsto access the Crypt and Cathedral floor only.

Why not take a virtual climb?In the new ‘Oculus’ film room (Crypt), there is anamazing ‘virtual climb’ film that may be viewed bythose who are unable to do the real thing! It isextremely realistic and ideal for disabled visitors.

How long will it take to climb theDome?Please allow about 45/50 minutes for thecomplete return climb, from bottom to top. Thisneeds to be taken into account when planningyour visit, in addition to the time you haveallowed for your guided visit/workshop. The climbto the top may be broken down into threestages:

The First Stage of the ClimbThis is to the interior, Whispering Gallery.Thereare over 100 shallow steps.

There is a seat around the gallery and children

will be able to look up at the Dome ceiling andlook down to the Cathedral floor below. N.B.Many teachers take KS1 children to this levelonly. Please check it out in your preparation visitto see what is best for your class/age group.

The Second and Third Stages of theClimbThere are over 400 steps to the top level! This isvia a metal, spiral staircase that leads you up tothe exterior Stone and Golden Galleries. Pleasecheck this out on your planning visit – it canbe daunting for young children and for safetyreasons, there is no turning back, once youcommence.

St Paul’s Cathedral advises that pupils and adultswho suffer from breathing difficulties, such asasthma, climb these stairs at their own risk. We alsoadvise schools to obtain written, parental consentbefore the visit.

Sample Parental Consent Form for Climbing the DomeI give / do not give consent for:___________________________________________

to climb the Dome and Galleries of St. Paul’s Cathedral during the school visit on:

_______/_______/_______

Either...

He/She does not suffer from any condition which would make such a climb hazardous

Or...

He/She suffers from:__________________________________________________

and will bring the appropriate medication on the day which will be held by a member ofstaff and administered if necessary.

Or...

He/She suffers from:__________________________________________________

and must not be permitted to climb the Dome and Galleries of St. Paul’s Cathedral


You may wish to book a self-guided visit, but youare still required to book in advance,through this department.

There is a separate brochure available for self-guided visits. This may be downloaded fromthe website, or you can request a paper copyfrom us.

CostThere is a charge per pupil for self-guidedvisits. Please ask for a price list or downloadone from the website.

SupervisionClose supervision and quiet,respectful behaviour is crucialand children must be dividedinto smaller working groupsas they move around thebuilding, each with an adult.

Self-Guided Visits

Risk Assessment AdviceThis advice aims to assist teachers/leaders withplanning their visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral. Westrongly recommend that the member ofstaff organising the visit makes apreparation visit to the Cathedral in order

to carry out their own risk assessment. Thisshould include the journey to and from theCathedral. Risk Assessments are yourresponsibility, this is merely our advice to you.

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DOOHILEKILSLORTNOC GNITSIXEYTIREVES FO REDRO NI KSIREUNEV

Cathedral & Crypt Risk from members of the Groups of children must be accompanied by an adult. A ratio of 2public e.g. abduction or assault 1:10 is advised. Consult your own guidelines in school. Groups using

public toilets in the Crypt must be accompanied by an adult. an adult.

2 eht ot srotisiv lla tcerid lliw ffats lardehtaC ,mrala/erif fo tneve eht nIeriFnearest safe exit. Teachers are responsible for doing a roll-call of their pupils once they are in a safe place. Should any person not be accounted for, Cathedral staff should be informed immediately.

Tripping on staircases Staircases are minimal in length and well lit. Children should be 1reminded by teaching staff to take care and to look where they are walking/hold rails, keep to the right.

Dome and Galleries Adequate adult supervision All school groups climbing to the Dome and Galleries are expected to have one staff member to every ten pupils. Brief helpers in advance and advise them to spread out evenly along the line. Insist on sensible, calm behaviour throughout.

Asthma attacks/vertigo The climb to the Dome and Galleries is long and steep in places. 2 Schools are advised to make this known to parents and seek medical opinion/consent in advance, if there are concerns.

Tripping on staircases School groups are advised to walk in single file and children are reminded 2by guides to take care. There are hand rails. Stairs from the GoldenGallery can be slippery in wet weather and teachers should tell children to take extra care in this area.

Falling from a height The barriers/railings around the galleries are tall. Stewards are positioned 1on each gallery and have two way radios. Children are asked to sit on the stone bench whilst in the Whispering Gallery and teachers should tell them not to lean over the barriers around any of the galleries.

Whispering Gallery Trips on floors and single steps Uneven floor surface due to age/texture of stone flooring. Children 2should be reminded to take care. Warning signs are in place. Advisethem to walk carefully and to look out.

Schools Centre Risk from members of the public The Schools Dept door is password coded and kept locked when a 1group is using the centre. Toilets within the centre may be used by unaccompanied children but we still advise adult supervision.

2 srehcaeT .tixe efas tseraen eht ot srotisiv lla tcerid lliw ffats lardehtaCeriFare responsible for doing a roll-call of their pupils.

2slairetam/eulg ot seigrella no ecivda laitnerap keeSspohskrow tfarCAllergies/injuries Children are instructed to use scissors safely.

* Likelihood: 1 Improbable • 2 Possible • 3 Likely • 4 Very likely • 5 Inevitable


These guidelines are set out for your enjoymentand safety – please read them carefully. Pleaseprovide all accompanying adults with a copy andread through it with them in advance of your visit.

Please ensure that you plan the visit with youradult helpers, in advance so that they know whatis expected of them on the day.

Please arrange, in advance, how your groupwill be divided into smaller working groupson arrival at the Cathedral. Time is preciouson the day!

Helpful reminders:• Please telephone the Schools & Families

Department if you know you are going to belate: 020 7246 8353. Booked groups who arrivemore than half an hour late may miss theirguided visit

• Behaviour – St. Paul’s is first and foremost aplace of prayer and worship. We therefore askthat all are respectful and quiet whilst in thebuilding. Please remind pupils about‘appropriate’ behaviour before you come andre-iterate this throughout the visit. Groupscausing a disturbance will be asked to leave theCathedral

• Photography is not allowed in the Cathedralexcept on the external galleries. This includescamera phones. Please tell your pupils

• It is traditional in Christian churches for menand boys to remove their hats/caps (unlessthere is some medical/religious reason)

• Prayers are said ‘on the hour’ in the Cathedraland groups are asked to respect this practiceand to be still and quiet for about five minutes.You are welcome to join in with the Lord’sPrayer when it is said at that time. There is a

Holy Communion service at 12.30 p.m. underthe Dome, so please bear this in mind if youare self-guiding at this time

• School staff and accompanying adults remainresponsible for the welfare and behaviour ofstudents throughout their visit to theCathedral. Should there be an accident/healthincident, please contact a steward or a guidewearing a red sash or your schools dept. guide

• Please ensure that all mobile phones areturned off whilst inside the building

• Please do not allow your pupils to chewgum/eat/drink in the Cathedral

• Pupils must be supervised by school staff at alltimes in the building. For groups of over 50, weask for 1 adult:10 pupils. There must besufficient adults available (and physically able)to escort groups up to the Dome/Galleries

We reserve the right to refuse access to theDome if there are insufficient adults.

St Paul’s is a busy place!Please make all aware of this before the visit.

There will be many other tour groups andvisitors exploring the building whilst you arethere.

Please plan your visit carefully, brief all youradult helpers and the children themselves. Wewant you to have a great time with us andthorough preparation reaps benefits!

Please support our staff and volunteersthroughout. They will do their utmost to ensureyou have a rewarding and enjoyable visit.

REMEMBER…if you have questionsabout any aspects of the visit, feel freeto get in touch with us.

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Helpful GuidelinesPlease follow theinstructions of your guideor the stewards if you hearthis loud siren.

There will also be anannouncement telling youto evacuate the building.

Groups will be led out tothe churchyard at the topof the North Crypt stairs(where you came in).

Please call a register whenyou assemble to ensurethat all are present.

It is important that youbring class lists with you.

What to do in theevent of a Fire Alarm


Frequently Asked Questions

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1. How do I get to St. Paul’s?Tube St. Paul’s tube station is in Zone 1 onthe Central Line and is less than five minuteswalk, Mansion House and Bank are also allclose by.

Bus Directly outside the Cathedral you cancatch the following buses: No. 4 Waterloo to Archway – every

20 minutes

No. 11 Liverpool St to Fulham Broadway – every 10 minutes

No. 15 East Ham to Paddington – every 8-10 minutes

No. 23 Liverpool St to Ladbrook Grove – every 15-20 minutes

No. 26 Waterloo to Hackney Wick – every 8-10 minutes

No. 100 Elephant & Castle to Shadwell –every 15 minutes

From Newgate Street you can catch the followingbuses: No. 242

Tottenham Court Road to Homerton Hospital – every 10 minutes

No. 25 Oxford Circus to Ilford – every 7-15 minutes

Buses from Hackney: Nos 26, 56, 242

Coaches A public coach park with 10 spaces is on the south side of the Cathedral. It is pay and display with a maximum stay of two hours.

2. What are the opening hours?08.30 to 16.30 Monday to Saturday.Last entry is at 16.00 and last entry to theGalleries is 16.15.

3. Do I need to book in advance?Yes. Well in advance please! It gets very busy

4. Do we pay on the day?No, you will be invoiced by us when weconfirm your booking.

5. Where are the toilets?In the Crypt and in the Schools Centre.

6. Will there be any services during ourvisit?12.30 Holy Communion – Access to the

Dome area is restricted. The servicelasts about 30 minutes.

17.00 Evensong

NB. All visitors on the Cathedral Floor are askedto be quiet for the Lord’s Prayer every houron the hour.

7. What can you see from the Dome?The Whispering Gallery gives a view of theinterior of the Cathedral, as well as providingan opportunity to try out its acousticproperties. Further up, you can see the viewover London from the Stone Gallery andGolden Gallery.

8. Where can we eat packed lunches?Self-Guided Groups

There are gardens to the north, east andsouth of the Cathedral but if the weather iswet, it may be possible for your group to eatin the Crypt.

Groups on Guided Visits

You will be informed about where to eatlunches on the day of your visit, either in theclassroom or the Crypt. In good weather youcan picnic in the garden.

9. Is there somewhere to leave ourbags/coats during the visit?Schools on guided visits may leave their bagsin the Schools Centre cloakroom. It may bepossible for self-guided groups to use thisfacility, if space permits, but please contact usin advance to ask about this.

10. Is there a shop?Yes. The Cathedral Crypt shop stocks a fullrange of postcards and gifts. Alternatively,groups can order gift bags, in advance,from the Schools & FamiliesDepartment. These are great value formoney.

11. Where should we report in when wearrive?Please refer to your confirmation letter. Entervia North Crypt steps and check in at theCrypt stewards’ desk.

12. Are there facilities for those withSpecial Needs?The Schools Centre is wheelchair accessible,as is the Crypt and Cathedral floor. We regretthat it is not possible to take wheelchairs, orpeople with walking difficulties up to theDome/Galleries since there is no public lift.

Please inform us of any special needs whenyou return your booking form.


17

INSETfor Teachers and Parish/Community Workers

‘We had an excellent morning, I think it’s the firsttraining day with all our staff (teaching and support)where everybody thoroughly enjoyed the day andfelt they had gained something from it. We havealready booked each class in for a trip!’Head Teacher, Primary School inHaringey‘It had everything: inspiration for artwork, awe andwonder, shape and space for Maths, History,Religion. An excellent morning.’KS 3 teacher, Haringey

You may wish to use St Paul’s as a base for stafftraining days. We welcome staff teams to ourschools centre for this purpose. Our classroom issuitable for up to forty people. It is equipped withan interactive whiteboard and projector.

Although you are conducting your ownprogramme on the day you may wish to book anadditional guided tour of the Cathedral withparticular focus on how you might use it with yourpupils. Our schools’ team will lead these tours foryou. They must however be booked in advance.

The cost to hire the centre is £150.00 +VATfor a day.

Why not book one of our special INSETdays or half days?

We will lead a workshop/activity session on R.E.topics such as:

• Visiting a Place of Christian Worship

• Prayer and Spirituality

• Reflective Story Telling

• Cross Curricular Themes at St Paul’s

• The Spiritual Development of Children andYoung People

There will also be a guided tour of the cathedralincluded that focuses on how to use the buildingwith your pupils.

The cost of this day is: £250.00 + VAT or£150.00 + VAT for a half day.

We welcome ‘cluster groups’ of schools/Diocesangroups/advisers’ groups/schools from different faithbackgrounds and SEN schools. Twilight sessions arealso a possibility.

Catering may be provided but there will be anextra charge and this must be booked in advancewith our café managers Harbour & Jones.

Contact Janet Marshall to discuss yourrequirements and plan a programme:[email protected]

Comments from those who have attended INSET at St. Paul’s:

The Crypt restaurant

The classroom


www.stpauls.co.uk

Please telephone or email the Schools &Families Department Administrator formore information/to book a visit:

St Paul’s CathedralSchools & Families Department

Telephone: 020 7246 8353

Fax: 020 7246 8327

[email protected]

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