Children

Children are very much a part of our worship and there is a small area for them at the front of the church with quiet toys etc to amuse the babies during the service. 

The older children are invited to meet in a side room after the Gospel had been read. They have their own activities and rejoin the service at the giving of the Peace. Their teaching is based on the readings and theme of the day.

All adults working with children are CRB checked and there is a Child Protection Policy which is strictly adhered to at all times.

Young People

St Peter’s does not at present have a separate activity for young people but there is a group called Quest which is held at the parish church of St Mary Magdalene in New Milton.

This is a group of young people aged 11-16 years who meet once a month in the Parish Church Hall for a mixture of social events, religious teachings, discussion, workshop drama, quizzes, games and other activities. This group is mainly intended to be  a small fellowship group for children once they leave Sunday School to support them during their teenage years when peer pressure makes belonging to a faith group not only difficult but often results in them being bullied at school.

This is run by Mrs Rosemary Bailey who can be contacted at the Rectory 01425 615150 and will be pleased to give you details.

Jelly Tots

Jelly Tots Parent and Carer’s group is held on a Tuesday afternoon during term time from 1.30 – 3.00pm. They cater for Mums, Dads, Grannies, Granddads, Carers and  Childminders with children up to 3 years old. The group is held in the church hall and is organised by a team of Christian women from St Peter’s.

The aim is to provide a safe and happy environment where the children can play at ease while the adults can meet for a chat and form new friendships. It is excellent for those who have moved into the area to get to know people.

The afternoon is mainly unstructured but refreshments are provided and the afternoon ends with a singing session with musical instruments.

There is a charge of £1 per session to cover refreshments and a contribution towards toys etc. Anyone who is experiencing hardship can speak to one of the leaders and concessions can be made.   

Extra events are held at intervals. There is a service in church once a term to which all are invited. This is an informal gathering and lasts no more than 15 minutes. It is a chance for the children to experience church without the constraints often found during a normal Sunday service. It includes singing and an activity as well as a short prayer and blessing.

• There are regular visits from Hallett photography who take excellent photos of the children and offer them at reasonable prices.

• The local Librarian calls in regularly to promote the facilities available at the library.

• The local Nursery Nurse also attends from time to time to give advice where it is needed.

• There is a library of books about bringing up children available which can be borrowed on a weekly basis.

• In the summer when weather permits the afternoon can be spent outside on the large grassed area beside the church.

In June the Big Toddle takes place when the children are sponsored to do a toddle around the field in aid of Barnardos. This is always a popular event and this year for the first time medals will be presented on finishing the course. It is good for the children to be able to help support  those who are less fortunate than themselves and have fun in the process.

After the Christmas service there is a party and visit from Santa. At Easter there is an Easter Egg Hunt around the church. Other events are arranged as appropriate.

This group is considered a part of St Peter’s Church and is supported by the church members. Father Harry, Priest in Charge of St Peter’s is at hand to discuss any needs with the adults and is always happy to arrange Baptisms for the little ones.

St Peter’s always welcomes children in Church and provision is made for them. The Jubilate Service on the first Sunday of the month at 10am is particularly suitable for families

Waiting List:-

At certain times of the year Jelly Tots gets very busy and therefore numbers have to be restricted. If you would like to join the group please phone

Mavis Boreham 01425 617037 to see if there is a place or come along on a Tuesday and speak with one of the leaders.