Christian Distinctiveness

As a Church Voluntary Controlled Primary School within the Diocese of Salisbury, Greenford Primary School works hard to develop and sustain the school’s Christian distinctiveness. Our Headteacher and governing body have a clear vision of a school with a distinctive Christian character. Our Governing Body is made up of a majority of Foundation (Church) Governors. We work in partnership with the Church of St Mary’s.

Spirituality Statement

We believe that it is very important to provide all children with a range of opportunities to help them develop spiritually. We believe that spiritual development can be explored through many different curriculum areas. We use the Windows, Mirrors and Doors model to support spiritual development.

Windows – Looking in/out

We give children opportunities to become aware of the world in new ways; to wonder about life’s ‘Wows’ (things that are amazing as to why they evoke such a response) and ‘Ows’ (things that upset us and cause us to be uncertain). In this, our children are learning about life in all its fullness.

Mirrors – Opportunites for reflection

We give children opportunities to reflect on their experiences; to meditate and reflect on life’s big questions and to consider some possible answers. In this, they are learning from life by exploring their own insights and perspectives and those of others.

Doors – Putting legs on your vision

We give children opportunity to respond to all of this; to do something creative as a means of expressing, applying and further developing their thoughts and convictions. In this they are learning to live by putting into action what they are coming to believe and value.

Our Values

Time is spent exploring what is distinctively Christian about our values. We strive for excellent relationships making our school a harmonious and cohesive community – growing together and learning for life.

Respect

Respect is

Respect is knowing I am unique and valuable and feeling good about myself.
Respect is knowing other people are valuable too.
Respect is treating my surroundings and objects nicely and taking care of them.
Respect is following rules and understanding they are there for a purpose.

Matthew 7:12: So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

Tolerance

Tolerance is

Tolerance is recognising differences and valuing them.
Tolerance is ensuring everyone is heard and included.
Tolerance is working together to create friendships.

Matthew 5:9: Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

Forgiveness

Forgiveness is

Forgiveness is understanding that everyone makes mistakes.
Forgiveness is accepting an apology that is really meant.

Forgiveness is moving forward and having a fresh start.

Ephesians 4 v32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

If we really want to love we must learn how to forgive – Mother Teresa

Courage

Courage is

Courage is a willingness to have a go.
Courage is having confidence to do something challenging.
Courage is not being afraid to make mistakes and showing resilience afterwards.
Courage is standing firm by one’s own faith, beliefs or courage of conviction.

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Perseverance

Perseverance is

Perseverance is being determined to achieve a goal.
Perseverance is understanding the need for patience.
Perseverance is enduring obstacles we face during our lives.

2 Chronicles 15:7 But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.

Friendship is

Friendship is showing kindness.
Friendship is encouraging each other.
Friendship is showing empathy for others.

Proverbs 17 :17 A friend loves at all times.