Inspiring a generation to learn, flourish and achieve in a caring, Christian community
Why did we choose the word ‘inspiring’?
Each child, uniquely made in the image of God, has a spark of greatness. We want to be a school that breathes life into children, so that they achieve their dreams and God-given potential.
Why the phrase ‘learn, flourish and achieve’?
Learn
Life is rich and complex – there is always more to explore and discover. We want our school community to develop a deep and life-long love of learning. We aspire to share the very best of what has been thought and said, across continents and cultures.
In the classroom:
For the children:
- High quality teaching
- Outstanding subject knowledge
- Carefully planned and sequenced
- Engaging, first hand experiences
- We can reflect on and explain our learning (activities like journaling).
- We are curious and adventurous.
- We are responsible and active participants in lessons.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.
Philippians 4 v9
Flourish
We want to deliver a rounded education, educating the heart as well as the head. We want to celebrate those who excel at sport and the arts and friendship, as well as our authors and scientists and mathematicians.
In the classroom:
- Wellbeing of staff and children central
- Time and value to a range of subjects and disciplines
- Daily worship when we reflect on our values and character.
For the children:
- We understand our core values.
- We look after and respect one another.
- Kindness matters.
I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.
John 10 v10
Achieve
We want all the children, no matter their starting points, to feel confident and ready for the next stage in their education. As a fully inclusive school, we are passionate about wanting all children to achieve their full potential and be proud of who they are.
In the classroom:
- Standards matter
- We insist on children doing their personal best in their work and conduct
- Staff model what excellence looks like in a range of contexts
For the children:
- We always try our best.
- We can identify what we are doing well and what we need to improve.
- We are confident.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Philippians 4 v13
Why have we retained ‘in a caring, Christian community’?
One of the distinguishing marks of the Priory School is our caring community. Visitors often remark on the ‘family’ feel of the school. Staff genuinely know, care for and protect each child. Being a community, we recognise that it takes all of us to support a child.
As a Church of England school for over 150 years, our Christian heritage and ethos is part of our DNA. We welcome families of all faiths and none to become part of our school family as our intention is to serve the common good. We also recognise the important role that Christianity plays in shaping our school culture and calendar.
We value our close connection with the Priory Church in Christchurch. We maintain the tradition of a daily act of worship and love sharing stories from the Bible. We also like to remember celebrations from other faiths and events in our national life. We want to make a positive difference in our community e.g. our care home visits and be a responsible Global neighbours.