St Matthew’s CE Primary School

Our School Vision

Our school vision and values were reviewed and updated in partnership with parents, children, staff and governors. Our vision and supporting values are rooted in the following passage from the Bible:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Jeremiah 29:11

At St Matthew’s Church of England Primary School, we aim to provide high quality teaching and learning along with a deeply Christian ethos that enables our children to become respectful and aspirational citizens.  Our curriculum helps our children to develop into resourceful, resilient problem-solvers who are independent and inquisitive.  This is complemented by our emphasis on Religious Education, providing children with regular and meaningful opportunities to explore their own and others’ religious beliefs and practices.  Our Christian values teach children to value themselves: they are courageous advocates for the Christian message and the morals it instils in them, including issues of equality, justice and diversity.  Worship is the beating heart of the school and educates children on teachings from the Bible, providing opportunities to bring children closer to God and enabling them to understand the relevance of faith to their everyday lives. 

Our aim is to develop the whole child, giving them the knowledge and skills to be successful in whatever path they choose to follow. Our inclusive, stimulating curriculum, underpinned by our Christian ethos and values, nurtures an intrinsic love of learning. 

Our school values and deeply Christian ethos encourages pupils to understand:

• The need to show compassion for others, through kindness and understanding
• That we can trust in God, and that he teaches us to trust one another and to be worthy of the trust put in us by others
• The importance of gratitude for all that God has given us and to be positive, seeing that every day brings its own gifts
• To value friendship: to love our neighbour as Jesus teaches us and to see that our community is stronger when we work together in partnership
• That forgiveness brings peace, and the importance of seeking forgiveness when we do wrong
• How the teachings from the Bible can guide and support them throughout their lives

With the strength God has given them, and a solid foundation of knowledge and skill, the children of St Matthew’s will take life’s difficulties in their stride, showing resilience, confidence and a strong sense of self.  In today’s fast-moving world, filled with obstacles and challenges, we aspire to give children a voice.  We aim to provide opportunities for children, both within the classroom and beyond, which will enable them to respond to the Big Questions that life often poses.

Our school teaches children the skills of listening, communication and teamwork. Through building positive relationships with others, including a lifelong relationship with the Church, the children of St Matthew’s will develop empathy.  They will be open minded, excited to celebrate others and to share their successes.

St Matthew’s is committed to providing a stimulating environment, excellent teaching and learning together with a strong Christian message that enables children to flourish.

The children of St Matthew’s will be empowered to achieve their full potential, supported by guidance from God.

 

Whta our school vision means to our pupils

God has good plans for me so I can be a nice person and I can have the best future. I can grow up to be a good Christian. I can be the best version of myself.  

I feel hopeful when I am in church. When I am respected by others and when God is looking down on me. When I am supporting and helping others.  

One way I can grow in school is by being nice to everyone. Being kind and listening to God. Helping others.  

I know God is looking after me when I keep praying and always standing up for what I believe in. When I sing to him during worship. When things get difficult, I know he is there.  

I can trust God because I have faith in God. He is always by my side. He listens to my prayers. 

When I face challenges, I can remember that God is always watching over me and he will protect us. He is always guiding us on the right path.  

God's plans for me might include to never give up and trusting in his vision, showing love and gratitude.  

I can help others feel hopeful by sharing the good news of God. Cheering them on, caring for them and always protecting them. Helping them when they are feeling low.  

Knowing God has a plan helps me to remember him and love him. To never give up and try our best every day. To stay focused and be persistent.  

God has good plans for me so I can spread the word of Jesus. Reach my goals. Use them for good and help others worship him. Show kindness and be a good role model. Forgive and be forgiven.  

I feel hopeful when God listens to my prayers. God gives me the courage to carry on learning. I pray to God. I go to church. People listen about the word of God. I know God is watching over me.  

One way I can grow in school is by always following the school rules. Listening and trying my best. Praying. Keeping my friends happy and enjoy lessons. Being sensible.   

I know God is looking after me when I feel safe and happy. I am doing something that makes me feel nervous or happy. I can feel him with me. I feel great about myself. I am enjoying things in school.   

I can trust God because I know he loves, cares and has plans for me. He has a good plan for me in my life. He is always by my side. He healed and helped people and I believe he will save us.  

When I face challenges, I can remember that God will clear me of all my worries. He is always with me and protects me. He is always by my side.  

God's plans for me might include a good life, including good job in an area of the world where I can pray to him. Always having faith in me. Keeping us safe and helping us. Learning that he will always be there through the good and the bad.  

I can help others feel hopeful by telling people about God and his plans for us. Encouraging them to learn about God and that God is with them. Helping them.  

Knowing God has a plan helps me to realise I am not alone and I am loved.  Feel less sad and worried. Concentrate and try my best. Keep going and support everyone around me.