Belchamps Kids & Youth
At Belchamps the children have the opportunity to learn whilst being outdoors and having fun. Over the course of the weekend, the kids and youth will foster new friendships, and will be encouraged in their journey to develop a deeper love for our Lord Jesus.
Our kids and youth work at Belchamps 2026 is being run by our fantastic staff from St. Michael's and St. John's.
Marcus King
Youth Pastor,
St. Michael's
Becky Armstrong
Youth Pastor,
St. John's
Elise Scogings
Children's & Families Worker, St. Michael's
Amanda Bruzzi
Children & Families Leader, St. John's
Kids Team
This year, there will be an un-manned creche marquee at the back of the main session field. There will be toys and baby changing facilities available, allowing parents with small children (under 2) to engage with the main sessions.
The remaining children will be split into three groups.
Children aged 2-4 (pre-school) will have planned sessions on during the two main sessions on Saturday. There will be no facility for pre-school aged children on Friday evening, but parents will be welcome to use the creche facility.
Children in reception year to year 3, will have a staffed fun session on Friday evening, and two planned learning sessions on Saturday during the main sessions.
Children in year 4 to year 6 will also have a staffed fun session on Friday evening, and two planned learning sessions on Saturday during the main sessions.
The Lost Son
This year's sessions will follow the parable of the lost son, thinking about how our Lord loves us, and where we are in our relationship with him.
The Adventurers will be exploring the parable through play, music, and interactive story telling.
The Explorers and Discoverers will be learning about the parable in a more dynamic way, and will also take part in refelctive craft, prayer and dance… that's not to mention the obstacle course and fun water games!
When you arrive on site and have checked in, children will need to be additionally booked in for the kids work; this will take place near the Holy Grounds Coffee House, and is marked on the map in your welcome pack. When booking in, each child will be given a coloured wristband to wear for the weekend which dicates which group your child will be in.
If you do not want any photos or videos being taken of your child, please highlight this when booking your child in.
Those children old enough to take part in Friday's fun play will start in the main session with their families for a short period of worship. At the end of the fun paly, they will be returned to the main session.
For both of Saturday's sessions, children from all three groups will need to be taken to the kids drop off marked on the map. At the end of the session, your children will be returned to you by the main stage.
Whilst in group sessions, our staff and volunteers will have repsonsibility for your children. In the event of an emergency you will be contacted.
Outside of the planned group sessions, children are the responsibility of their parents or guardians - not the staff and volunteers!
If you have any questions about the kids work at Belchamps 2026, please speak to Elise or Amanda, or email children@church-weekend.co.uk
Youth Team
Young people in secondary school (Y7 and above) will have their own teaching time during the Saturday morning and evening sessions, with a relaxed chill space available during the Friday evening. They will join the adults for the first part of the gathered worship before splitting off to thier own dedicated youth space.
In the youth sessions, they will also be taking a deep dive into the story of the Prodigal Son, reflecting on what it means to be a child of God, with a place to belong in His family. They’ll be daring to dream what it could look like to truly be Church in this generation and how we all have a part to play.
You can also expect snacks, games, and plenty of good vibes!
If you have any questions about the kids work at Belchamps 2026, please speak to Elise or Amanda, or email youth@church-weekend.co.uk
Safeguarding
We are committed to promoting a safe environment and culture for children, young people and vulnerable adults. The individuals appointed to working with the children and youth groups will be expected to work within the safeguarding policy and procedures.
If you have a concern about a child or an adult at risk? In the first instance, we recommend you report the concern to your Parish Safeguarding Officer during the weekend:
- Wendy Gould (St. Michael's)
- Linda Thornton (St. John's)
- Liesje Andre (Christ Church)
- Nonsi Nyanhwa (St. Andrew's)
Alternatively, you can report any concern directly to the Diocesan Safeguarding Team
Telephone: 01245 294444
Email: Safeguarding@Chelmsford.anglican.org
If You Have Information About A Safeguarding Situation Where A Child Or Adult Is In Immediate Danger Call The Emergency Services On 999
To Contact Your Local Police To Report A Non-Emergency Concern Call 101