The Grand is a community-based performing arts venue in Lancashire’s Ribble Valley, committed to using the arts to engage children in exploring faith and enhancing their wellbeing. One of our key initiatives, Prayer Spaces in Schools, provides a safe, creative environment for children to learn about faith, reflect, and nurture their emotional wellbeing through interactive activities. This project addresses a critical need, as East Lancashire has some of the lowest rates of arts engagement in the UK, compounded by rural isolation and cultural deprivation.

As the only performing arts venue in the district, we play a vital role in providing children with access to high-quality arts experiences. With rising anxiety among young people and record-low happiness levels, as reported by the Children’s Society, Prayer Spaces in Schools offers a unique and bespoke opportunity for children to express their thoughts and concerns through prayer and creative expression, promoting mindfulness and emotional resilience.

Over the past year, we’ve reached hundreds of children, delivering over 900 prayer experiences tailored to each school’s needs. Through strong relationships with primary schools in our borough, we transform school halls or classrooms into spaces of calm, reflection, and creativity. With up to twelve thematic stations, such as 'calm jars' and interactive games based on Christian values, children are guided through activities that help them practice gratitude, find stillness, and reflect on their lives.

“The whole week had a wellbeing focus and the Prayer Space had a very positive impact on all children and staff. The children found the activities very relaxing and gave them time to think about their family and friends. The Prayer Space had a very calming effect on the children. I would love a prayer space to be a permanent feature in our school, that can be tweaked termly.” — Teacher, St James’ CE School