School of Sanctuary
Welcome to Our Journey to Becoming a School of Sanctuary!
We are incredibly excited to announce that OLSPN is on its journey to becoming a School of Sanctuary! This is a significant step for our school, reflecting our deep commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.
What is a School of Sanctuary?
The Schools of Sanctuary network in the UK includes over 350 primary and secondary schools, committed to creating a welcoming environment for refugees and people seeking asylum.
A School of Sanctuary is a school that is committed to being a safe and welcoming place for those whose lives have been disrupted, and who may have been forced to flee their homes. This includes people seeking asylum and refugees, but the principles of welcome and inclusion extend to all members of our school community.
The award recognises schools that go above and beyond to:
- Learn: Educate their community about the experiences of people seeking sanctuary and the reasons why people are forced to leave their homes.
- Embed: Ensure that principles of welcome, safety, and inclusion are embedded throughout the school's ethos, policies, and curriculum.
- Share: Share their understanding and commitment with the wider community, advocating for a more welcoming society.
It's about fostering a culture where every child and every family feels safe, supported, and a sense of belonging, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Why is OLSPN Becoming a School of Sanctuary?
At OLSPN our core values have always revolved around:
- love and mutual respect
- dedication and loyalty
- justice and fairness
- honesty and trust
- the living of our faith
- high expectations of each other
- forgiveness and reconciliation
- an affirmation of each other’s talents
- a commitment to a culture of continuous self improvement
- a willingness to co-operate and share our gifts for the good of all
Becoming a School of Sanctuary is a natural extension of these values.
We believe this initiative will:
- Enrich Our Curriculum: Provide opportunities for our children to learn about global issues, diverse cultures, and develop empathy and understanding for others.
- Strengthen Our Community: Ensure that all children and families feel truly welcome and supported, fostering a stronger, more inclusive school community.
- Promote British Values: Uphold and promote fundamental British values such as mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
- Empower Our Children: Help our pupils become compassionate, responsible citizens who understand the importance of welcome and human rights.
- Celebrate Diversity: Recognise and celebrate the rich diversity within our school and local community.
Our Journey So Far & Next Steps
We have already begun our journey by delivering staff training, introducing relevant topics in assemblies, networking with other schools and organisations in the borough and celebrating events that prompt inclusivity throughout the school year.
Over the coming months, you can expect to see:
- Curriculum Enhancements: Integration of themes related to welcome, diversity, and sanctuary into our lessons.
- Community Events: Opportunities for parents and the wider community to get involved in activities and learn more about our School of Sanctuary journey.
- Pupil Voice: Our children will be actively involved in shaping what it means to be a School of Sanctuary through school council and other initiatives.
- Continued Learning: Regular training for staff to ensure we are providing the best possible support and environment for all.
We will keep you updated on our progress through newsletters, school assemblies, and updates on this webpage.
Get Involved!
We believe that becoming a School of Sanctuary is a whole-school and community effort. We would love for you to be a part of this journey!
If you have any questions, ideas, or would like to volunteer your time or expertise, please do not hesitate to contact the school office at admin@olspn.co.uk.
