At Sheering CE Primary School, our vision is "Together we care, belong and grow."
Our commitment to social justice flows directly from this vision.
Rooted in our Christian faith, we believe that every person is made in the image of God and deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and fairness. We are guided by Jesus’ teaching to “Love your neighbour as yourself” (Luke 10:27), and by the example of the Good Samaritan, who noticed need and responded with compassion and action.
Social justice at Sheering is about helping children to notice others, care deeply, think wisely and act responsibly in their communities and in the wider world.
“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed.”
— Isaiah 1:17
Our approach to social justice is shaped by our Christian vision and our shared values:
Curiosity
Children are encouraged to ask questions about the world around them, to explore why inequality and injustice exist, and to develop understanding through thoughtful discussion and learning.
Courage
Pupils are supported to speak up when something is unfair, to stand up for others, and to take responsibility for making positive choices, even when this feels challenging.
Compassion
We nurture empathy and kindness, helping children understand the impact of actions on others and encouraging forgiveness, care and reconciliation.
Community
Children learn that they belong to one another and that everyone has a role in creating a fair, safe and inclusive school and society.
Through these values, pupils learn that social justice is not abstract, but lived out through everyday actions and choices.
We live in a diverse and complex world. Through our curriculum and wider school life, we help pupils to:
recognise fairness and unfairness
understand inequality and discrimination
develop the confidence to challenge injustice respectfully
take responsibility for their actions and choices
work collaboratively to make a positive difference
understand their rights and responsibilities as citizens
This learning is always age-appropriate, balanced and rooted in respect.
Social justice is woven throughout school life rather than taught in isolation.
Religious Education
Pupils explore religious teachings about justice, compassion and human dignity, including how faith motivates people to work for fairness and reconciliation.
Personal, Social, Health and Relationships Education
Children learn about equality, diversity, human rights, bullying and respectful relationships.
History and Geography
Pupils learn about past and present injustices, global inequality, migration, environmental responsibility and how societies change over time.
English
Through stories, non-fiction and discussion, children explore different perspectives, develop empathy and learn to express their views clearly and respectfully.
Collective Worship
Themes of justice, compassion and belonging are explored regularly, drawing on Bible stories and lived examples of service and courage.
We believe learning about justice should lead to thoughtful action.
Throughout the year, pupils support a range of charitable causes, helping them understand need and impact. These include:
Charity of the Year initiatives
Harvest Festival and seasonal appeals
National fundraising events
Pupils are involved in choosing causes and reflecting on the difference their actions make.
Children are given meaningful opportunities to lead and serve through:
School Council
Environmental and sustainability roles
Worship leadership
Peer mediation and play leadership
These roles help pupils practise fairness, responsibility and inclusion in real situations.
We recognise caring for the environment as a matter of justice, particularly for future generations. Pupils learn about sustainability and take action through recycling, energy awareness, gardening and environmental projects.
Teaching about justice and responsibility is a shared endeavour between school and home. We work with families by:
communicating openly about learning and initiatives
inviting participation in events and community action
celebrating pupils’ achievements and contributions
encouraging shared reflection on fairness, kindness and responsibility
We know our approach is having an impact when pupils:
show empathy and care for others
talk confidently about fairness and responsibility
take action to help others
challenge unkind or unfair behaviour
work together respectfully
demonstrate positive behaviour and attitudes
Evidence includes pupil voice, behaviour patterns, community feedback and participation in initiatives.
We are committed to continuing to develop our work on social justice by:
deepening pupils’ understanding
strengthening pupil leadership and voice
embedding justice across the curriculum
developing community and global links
reviewing and reflecting on impact