Christian Ethos, Vision and Values
‘Flourishing Together’
At Belmont Church of England Primary School, our vision is for everyone in our Belmont family to flourish and to learn how to live well together, with dignity and respect. Inspired by the story of Noah’s Ark, our vision is brought to life through three key symbols: the rainbow, the ark and the dove.
Our Vision
Our Christian vision underpins all that we do. It guides how we care for one another, how we learn together and how we live out our shared values as a school family.
The Rainbow
The rainbow reminds us of God’s promise of love and protection and that He will always be with us. It also represents our own Rainbow Promise to love and care for everyone in our Belmont family.
“I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the promise between me and the earth.”
Genesis 9:13
We promise to be loving, kind, respectful, honest, peaceful, patient and forgiving.
The Ark
The ark reminds us that our school is a place of safety, care and protection. We work hard to ensure that everyone feels included, valued and supported within our Belmont family.
The Dove
The dove is a symbol of peace and reflects our commitment to serving others. It represents our influence in the local community and our desire to live out our Christian values beyond the school gates.
British Values
The Department for Education states that all schools must actively promote the fundamental British values of: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
At Belmont CE Primary School, these values are embedded throughout school life and are closely linked to our Christian vision and values.
Democracy
Pupil voice is highly valued at Belmont. Pupils and adults respect the right of every individual to have their opinions heard. Children share their ideas through the School Council, pupil questionnaires and class discussions.
School Council members are elected through pupil votes, helping children to understand democracy in action and making clear links to the British democratic system.
The Rule of Law
The importance of rules and laws is reinforced consistently, whether they apply to the classroom, the school or the wider community. Our school rules are embedded in daily practice and each class also agrees its own class rules.
Pupils learn why rules and laws exist, how they protect us, and what happens when they are broken. Visits from the Police and Fire Service support this learning, and older pupils take part in Durham Constabulary’s Mini Police initiative.
Individual Liberty
Within school, pupils are encouraged to make choices in a safe and supportive environment. Through our curriculum, including PSHCE and e-safety education, children learn about their rights, personal freedoms and how to exercise them responsibly.
Opportunities for choice are provided through learning challenges, ways of recording work and participation in a wide range of extra-curricular activities.
Mutual Respect
Our pupils understand the importance of respect for everyone, regardless of differences. Respect for others is promoted through Collective Worship, PSHCE, Religious Education and reflection time.
We celebrate diversity and develop intercultural understanding through our curriculum, Primary Languages, Fair Trade work and themed learning experiences.
Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs
Our core values promote tolerance and understanding of those with different faiths and beliefs. Pupils learn about a range of religions and world views through Religious Education, PSHCE and visits to places of worship.
Learning about different countries, cultures and traditions is further enriched by visitors to school, helping pupils to grow in understanding, respect and compassion.
