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Social Justice and Responsibility

 

Our Commitment to Social Justice

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


How Our Vision and Values Shape Social Justice

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.


Preparing Pupils for Life in Modern Britain

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.


How We Teach About Social Justice

Social justice is woven throughout school life rather than taught in isolation.

Across the Curriculum

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.


From Learning to Action

We believe learning about justice should lead to thoughtful action.

Charitable Giving and Fundraising

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.

Pupil Voice and Leadership

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.

Caring for Creation

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.


Working in Partnership with Families

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


Impact: The Difference We Are Making

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.


Our Commitment Going Forward

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