Rights Respecting School

St John the Evangelist CE (VA) Primary School is a Rights Respecting School.

In 2023, St Johns School was awarded the Silver Award in acknowledgement of the work done so far in raising awareness of the National Conventions on the Rights of the Child.

UNICEF works with schools in the UK to create safe and inspiring places to learn, where children are respected, their talents are nurtured and they are able to thrive. Whilst working towards achieving the first stage of this award we have ensured the Rights Respecting philosophy is embedded within the values of our school life and gives the children the best chance to lead happy, healthy lives and to be responsible, active citizens.

Using the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) as our guide, we are working with more UK schools than almost any other organisation. Over 1.6 million children in the UK go to a Rights Respecting School and nearly 5,000 schools up and down the country are working through the Award. Schools work with us on a journey to become fully Rights Respecting.

The Award recognises a school’s achievement in putting the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child into practice within the school and beyond.

The Pupils reflected on the importance of understanding the different articles.

‘It’s important because young lives need to be treated properly otherwise it can effect the rest of their life. A child needs to know their rights.’

‘It is important that children know they cannot be abused and that they do have a voice.’

‘It is important so children know what their rights are and so they can protect and stand up for themselves. Also, to make sure you are treated fairly as a child.’

‘It is important because we should know things that protect you from harm.’

‘I think its is important as it gives children the power to stand up for themselves.’

‘I think it is important that we know we have the right to be respected.’

‘I think it is important that children have their say.’

‘I think it is important because in the future we can help children who aren’t being treated by their rights.’

‘It is important to know that every child has the same rights.’

‘It is important to know our rights. It is also good to know that people respect children and want us to have these rights.’

Quotes from Year 5 and Year 6 pupils at St John's.