CHRISTIAN DISTINCTIVENESS 

We are proud to be a Church of England Primary School, linked to the beautiful and historic St Mary's Church, which borders our site and offers many rich opportunities and resources through which children can explore the Christian faith. 

We share the The Church of England's Vision for Education; a vision that is deeply Christian, with Jesus' promise of 'life in all its fullness' at its heart.

I came to give life - life in all its fullness! - John 10:10

What does it mean to be a Church of England school?

Church of England schools started in 1811, with the founding of the The National Society to establish a church school in every parish, providing basic education for poor children at a time before the state provided education to all.  

Over time, the government began providing grants to these voluntary organisations which is why St Mary's is called a 'voluntary aided' school - because our funding is aided by the government. 

At our core, the purpose of the school hasn't changed. We remain a school for all. We believe everyone deserves access to a good education. 

We still hold firm to our Christian foundations. St Mary's is built on Christian beliefs and values which emphasise God's love for all of us, and His desire that we love our neighbours. We are dedicated to serving our local community, so we welcome children of all faiths and none. 

As a church school, our ethos is distinctively Christian and we offer a unique spiritual dimension to the lives of all pupils. We aim to foster an understanding of faith and provide opportunities for children to explore their own beliefs. The school has a strong and active relationship with St Mary's Church, and enjoys Christian worship in our daily assemblies, which are integral to the life of the school. 

Our curriculum for Religious Education further strengthens learning about Christianity, but also teaches children about other faiths and worldviews. Children are encouraged to reflect on their own beliefs and values in light of their studies of religious and other traditions. 

Our vision for St Mary's to be a school where all can learn and grow in mind, body and spirit echoes the historic foundation of Church of England schools, and describes our approach to learning that goes beyond academics. It recognises that true learning happens when the whole child is supported to grow—intellectually, physically, and emotionally/spiritually—in a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment.

Our Instrument of Governance says...

Recognising its historic foundation, the school will preserve and develop its religious character in accordance with the principles of the Church of England and in partnership with the Church at parish and diocesan level.

The school aims to serve its community by providing an education of the highest quality within the context of Christian belief and practice. It encourages an understanding of the meaning and significance of faith and promotes Christian values through the experience it offers all of its pupils.