SCHOOL OF SANCTUARY
OUR CONVICTION
At St. Cuthbert’s, we believe that caring for families seeking sanctuary is a profound expression of Gospel values and aligns with our school’s core values of respect, kindness, and equality. Jesus' teachings urge us to show compassion and hospitality to those in need, recognizing that in doing so, we are serving Christ Himself. This commitment is deeply rooted in our faith, which calls us to act justly, love kindness and walk humbly with God.
Our school community embraces these Gospel values and the British values of mutual respect and tolerance by educating students on the importance of empathy, engaging in service projects to support refugees, and partnering with organizations dedicated to this cause. By integrating these principles into our curriculum and daily activities, we aim to foster a spirit of charity and justice, preparing our students to be compassionate and responsible members of society.
“Dear God, help us to make our school a place where people feel welcome, content and secure.”
Our School Prayer
“God made us all unique... To show care, concern and friendship... Showing Christ’s love in all we do.”
Our Mission Statement
"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me."
Matthew 25:35-40
"Above all, have a fervent and unfailing love for one another... Offer hospitality to one another without hesitation."
Peter 4:8-9
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
John 13:34-35
OUR COMMITMENT
As part of our commitment to creating a culture of welcome, understanding and belonging for those forced to flee. We are working towards achieving the 'Schools of Sanctuary' Award.
We are a recognized 'Supporting Organisation' and have signed the organisational pledge (below):
“We support the ‘City of Sanctuary’ vision that the UK will be a welcoming place of safety for all and proud to offer sanctuary to people fleeing violence and persecution.
We endorse the City of Sanctuary Charter, and agree to act in accordance with City of Sanctuary values and apply the network principles within our work (as far as our specific context enables us to).
We recognise the contribution of people seeking sanctuary. Sanctuary seekers are welcomed, included and supported within our context. We expect our branches or local groups (if any) to support their local City of Sanctuary group if one exists, and will facilitate contact between them and their local City of Sanctuary group.”
OUR DELIVERY
At St. Cuthbert’s, we are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all, especially for refugees and asylum seekers. Our School of Sanctuary Action Plan outlines the steps we are taking to foster a culture of welcome, understanding, and belonging.
Language Support and Resources
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Introduce language support sessions with dedicated staff.
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Employ technology to support language learning, such as interpreting apps and language learning tools (e.g., ‘Mantra Lingua’ & ‘Duolingo’).
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Provide dual language books to support children and families.
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Signpost to further language learning support.
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Ensure multi-lingual welcome displays are in all classrooms.
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Offer support in finding workshops and English classes for parents and community members.
Cultural Integration and Awareness
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Organize cultural events throughout the year to celebrate diversity.
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Have cultural awareness weeks, including learning about different religions such as Islam and Judaism, with guest speakers and visits to religious settings.
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Integrate diversity into the curriculum, including lessons on minority ethnic groups and local heritage.
Support and Collaboration
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Explore opportunities to collaborate with local refugee support organizations (WERS, NERS) for joint events and resource sharing.
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Provide contact information of organizations that support children and families with EAL, including refugee and asylum support organizations.
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Offer leaflets in different languages for families from the EU wishing to apply for Settled Status, with help and drop-in information sessions.
Social Integration
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Buddy up newly arrived pupils with classmates to help them integrate into school life and feel welcomed.
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Encourage involvement from parents and families in cultural and language learning events.
Visual and Practical Support
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Display photos of staff in classrooms to create a familiar and welcoming environment.
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Use visual timetables in all classes to aid understanding.
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Provide translated materials and intervention support to boost vocabulary and communication as needed.
Monitoring and Assessment
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Closely monitor the progress of EAL pupils in the curriculum and their acquisition of English.
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Use EAL assessment materials to track individual progress and inform support plans.
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Maintain up-to-date records of EAL pupils, categorized by levels of English language proficiency.
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Complete and review Person-Centred Plans (PCPs) for EAL pupils with lower levels of English proficiency on a termly basis.
Professional Development
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Ensure staff receive CPD (Continuing Professional Development) training on supporting EAL pupils in the classroom.
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Collaborate with other schools and agencies to improve provision and practice within our school.
Community and Family Engagement
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Language of the Month: Celebrate and learn about a different language each month, encouraging parental and family involvement.
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Signpost parents to English lessons through the local authority to enhance their language skills.
By implementing these actions, St. Cuthbert’s aims to ensure that all pupils and their families feel valued, respected, and fully integrated into our school community. We believe in the power of education to transform lives and are dedicated to supporting every member of our diverse community.