We Are a School of Sanctuary

At SS John & Monica Catholic Primary School, we are proud to be recognised as a School of Sanctuary, reflecting our commitment to creating a welcoming, safe and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected and a true sense of belonging.

Rooted in our Catholic faith and Gospel values, we believe that every person is created in the image and likeness of God and deserves to be treated with dignity, kindness and compassion, regardless of their background, nationality, culture or circumstances.

As a School of Sanctuary, we are particularly committed to supporting children and families who have been forced to leave their homes in search of safety, including refugees and people seeking asylum.

Our Commitment as a School of Sanctuary

We are dedicated to:

  • Creating a culture of welcome and belonging – Ensuring that every child and family feels safe, included, supported and valued within our school community.

  • Promoting empathy and understanding – Helping children appreciate the experiences and challenges faced by people who have been displaced from their homes.

  • Celebrating diversity – Recognising and valuing the different cultures, languages, faiths and experiences that enrich our school community.

  • Challenging prejudice and discrimination – Promoting respect, equality and understanding while actively addressing stereotypes and misconceptions.

  • Giving a voice to those seeking sanctuary – Listening to, respecting and celebrating the experiences, perspectives and contributions of refugees and people seeking asylum.

  • Educating for compassion and social justice – Developing children's understanding of the right to seek sanctuary and encouraging them to become advocates for kindness, fairness and inclusion.

  • Putting our faith into action – Demonstrating our commitment through charitable outreach, community partnerships and everyday acts of kindness and service.

Living Our Values Every Day

Being a School of Sanctuary is more than an award; it is an ongoing commitment that shapes our school culture, relationships and curriculum.

Through Religious Education, Catholic Social Teaching, assemblies, classroom learning and wider school experiences, we encourage children to develop empathy, challenge injustice and recognise their responsibility to care for others.

Our commitment reflects the teachings of Jesus and the Catholic principles of human dignity, solidarity and the Common Good.

At SS John & Monica's, we are proud to be a community where everyone is welcomed, everyone belongs and everyone has the opportunity to flourish.

Our School of Sanctuary ethos is a living expression of our school mission:

“We learn through the example of Jesus to love, respect, understand and value each other.”