Here at St Giles we are passionate about being community; community that endeavours to embrace everyone, with all ages having a part to play. We are keen to see all generations share wisdom and enthusiasm with each other about their faith journey. We aim to create an environment in which all ages can relate to, and learn from, one another. Through this intergenerational community, children and adults can recognise their faith in the everyday and their valuable part in passing on the story of God and inviting others to be a part of it. We live out the above values through the following ministries:

Sundays for children

We all meet together for the first half hour of the morning service. Then children aged 5-12, go across the road to the church centre, for age-specific circle groups.

Under 5’s: There is separate provision for 3-4’s in 'Scramblers' in the centre after the first half hour. There is a crèche for under 3’s, in the church (through the door behind the organ), from the beginning of the service.

Toddle In and Take a Break

• Toddle In:
  Every Tuesday during term time, in the church centre from 10am to 12 noon.
  Where babies and children aged 0-4+ can play happily together accompanied by their mums, dads, grandparents, guardians or childminders.
  We provide craft activities, toys and singing for the children. The session is free – suggested donation for drinks is 20p. Once a month we share in a light lunch together after Toddle In.
• Take a Break:
  Normally run on three days at the start of the summer holidays and for one day during Easter and Christmas holidays. In the church, from 10am to 12 noon. Coffee, chat and yummy cakes, with activities for under 10’s.
• Together Language Group
  ‘Together’ is a project seeking to reach out to the town centre community, specifically targeting those who speak English as a second language living in and near to the town centre. The project aims to meet the needs of carers with small children; providing them with the opportunity to learn English and develop social, lifestyle skills and cultural awareness. The main aim is to give carers the chance to have an informal English lesson whilst the children have free play time.
  The parents can also bring in any official documents or forms that they may need help with.

Uniformed groups

• Guide Association for girls:
  • Brownie Guides (7-10 years): Tuesdays 5.45-7.30pm
  • Guides (10-14 years): Tuesdays 7.30-9.00pm
• Scout Association for boys and girls:
  • Beaver Scouts (6-8 years): Thursdays 6.00-7.00pm
  • Cub Scouts (8-10 years): Thursdays 7.00-8.15pm
  • Scouts (10-14 years): Wednesdays 7.30-9.00pm

Child Protection and safety

All youth & children’s workers comply with our Safeguarding policy and receive training in child protection and safe working practices. Any one working with children at St Giles is subject to CRB enhanced disclosure.

If you would like to know more about our provision for children aged 0-13 on Sunday mornings and during the week, please contact Cara Witheyman, Children and Family Minister at cara@stgilesnorthampton.org.uk or 01604 230360.