Christian Ethos

St Mary’s High School is committed to providing a safe and caring learning environment founded on Christian principles of respect for each other and the environment.

The school is committed to providing an excellent standard of education for all students allowing each individual to achieve their full potential regardless of ability. Our Christian vision,

Through God’s love, we are the rich soil where seeds flourish and roots grow

is taken from the Parable of The Sower (Mark 4: 3-9) and is the principle that underpins our work with our students, to support them to grow and develop in to young people who can lead lives of value.

St Mary’s is also committed to ensuring that the school sits at the centre of the local community providing support both for children and young people and their families so that they have the best start in life and access to the help and services that they need to thrive.

Where possible the work of the school involves consultation and collaboration with students and thier parents/carers as well as staff, governors and partners to ensure that we remain true to our Christian ethos and are focussed on meeting the needs of our community by placing the community at the centre of our work.

A full list of our Christian Values can be found on the webpage titled ‘Christian Values’. Listed below are the six key values that have been identified by Students and Staff, that we believe are particularly important in our school.

The Key Christian Values of St Mary’s CE High School that contribute to our ethos and underpin all aspects of our work are:

1. Trust

firm belief in the reliability, truth, or ability of someone and GOD. Bible verse: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.” John 14:1

Examples of this can be seen at St Mary’s:

Students feel safe at SMHS and talk to staff about issues/problems because they TRUST staff and their friends to support them and forgive them when they make mistakes
Increasing numbers of parents/carers choose SMHS for their child’s secondary education as a result of the TRUST that they have in the school based on the school’s reputation and very good performance records.
Staff TRUST students to do their best in all aspects of their learning and to use the opportunities they are given, such as contributing to Student Voice or taking part in community activities, responsibly.

2. Forgiveness

Stop feeling angry or resentful towards (someone) for doing wrong or making a mistake. Bible verse: “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us”. Matthew 6:14.