Who will run a BIF club?

Each BIF club is staffed by adult volunteers supported by one or more Spinnaker staff, either one of our team or an associate worker. There is no charge to the school and no expectation on the school’s staff to participate. Hopefully the school will be happy for the club to use, free of charge, an appropriate classroom or hall space, depending upon the activities. The room will always be left ready for its usual use. The club will limit its numbers according to the space and time available to us, and this may mean that we have to limit the clubs age group.

The number of volunteers available will also determine the size of the group. Generally speaking we feel it important to have one adult volunteer to every five or six children. Each group of children, from any one year group, should ideally have their own team leader.

Each adult on the staff list will have both a current CRB check and character references. Everyone helping to run a BIF club, either volunteers or team worker, will be given training and encouragement. We will endeavour to make sure that each BIF club has some reserve team members in order to make sure the club can run regularly. This is especially important when the club runs after school hours.

One particular member of the team will act as the ‘leader’ and it is suggested that this person liaise with the school on all matters related to the smooth running of the club. This person will usually be introduced to the head teacher (or member of staff responsible for extra curricular activities) by the Spinnaker worker. This person is also responsible for all the administration, preparation and execution of the BIF club activities.

If there are any matters relating to the club which cause concern then the school should speak both to the BIF club leader and to the Spinnaker worker, who will inform the school of any action to be taken.

When does the club run?

BIF clubs will run either:

• at lunch time
• after school
• or in the evening after school, but not on the school site.

If a club is run out of school hours, we must insist that the child’s parents (or another responsible adult with prior permission) collect their child. We are not responsible for the children once they have left the BIF club premises.

Relevant insurance will be set in place to safeguard both the children and the helpers, and this is established in consultation with the school (if on a school site) or with the premises owners.

The aims of each BIF club

• to give Primary aged children the opportunity to find outmore about Christianity and, especially Bible stories
• to introduce the children to people from a local church. Each club is open to children from other churches or to those from families that do not regularly visit any church.
• for every child, whatever their ability and background, to get something out of the club, not least a regular entertaining, educational and beneficial experience.

Each week the BIF club will be based around a Bible theme which will be introduced with games and activities, singing and, an illustrated Bible story. Some weeks there will be additional activities such as videos and filmstrips, craftwork and drama. There may be a short time for prayer and quiet reflection too. Each club will be resourced with stationary, equipment and refreshments if appropriate. Apart from space to meet in, there is no expectation on the school to provide for the club.