Saint Mary’s Silver Rights Respecting School
At Saint Mary’s, we are proud to be a UNICEF UK Silver Rights Respecting School, a recognition of our commitment to placing children’s rights at the heart of everything we do. Being a Rights Respecting School means that the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) help shape our ethos, relationships, curriculum and decision-making, ensuring that every child feels valued, respected, safe and heard.
Our pupils learn about their rights and the responsibilities that come with them. Through lessons, assemblies, class charters, Rights Respecting journals and whole-school events, children develop a deep understanding of equality, dignity, respect and fairness. Rights are woven throughout school life, helping children to build positive relationships, celebrate diversity, resolve conflicts respectfully and understand how they can make a difference in the world around them.
At Saint Mary’s, we regularly support local, national and global charities, including food bank collections and fundraising initiatives, helping pupils recognise that not all children have the same access to their rights. We encourage children to think critically about the challenges faced by others and inspire them to take action to create positive change. Our work promotes kindness, compassion, inclusion and a strong sense of social responsibility.
Being a Rights Respecting School is important because it empowers children to have a voice, develop confidence in expressing their views and understand the importance of respecting the rights of others. It creates a positive school culture where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, and where children are supported to become thoughtful, informed and responsible citizens.
Our Silver Award reflects the dedication of our pupils, staff, governors and families in creating a nurturing and inclusive community where children’s rights are championed every day and where every child is encouraged to flourish academically, socially and emotionally
