Vision, Values and Ethos

We are all one - learning together, thriving together.

Our Vision

Alkerden Church of England all-through Academy is underpinned by the Christian vision for inclusion and hope. Our inclusive ethos extends to those of all faiths and none, celebrating and honouring the uniqueness of each person.

We are a community where everyone is valued and empowered to thrive. From the early years to adulthood, we journey together, learning, growing and thriving in an environment of kindness and collaboration. We aim to support our young people to become active learners with the ability to analyse complex issues, empathise with others and develop their social conscience. We nurture the whole learner, embracing diversity and supporting one another every step of the way as we consider our place in the world and the difference that we can make.

SMSC Statement

We are committed to improving the life chances of local children by fostering the holistic development of every child. Through a rich and inclusive curriculum, we foster students’ spiritual, moral, social, and cultural growth, preparing them to flourish as compassionate, respectful, and responsible members of society.

Rooted in our Christian values and community ethos, our school cultivates a nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to reflect on their beliefs and values, develop empathy, and explore their purpose. We celebrate diversity and promote understanding across different cultures, faiths, and backgrounds, ensuring that all learners appreciate the wider world and their place in it.

Our SMSC provision is embedded across all areas of school life, from classroom learning and collective worship to extra-curricular activities and community engagement. Through this, pupils develop a strong moral compass, understand right from wrong, and are empowered to make positive contributions both in and beyond the school community. They see the awe and wonder in the world and value their contribution to and place within it.

In line with British Values and the vision of the Church of England, Alkerden CE Academy nurtures young people who are confident, respectful, and resilient, ready to lead and serve with wisdom, dignity, and kindness.

Spiritual Development

Daily collective worship and reflection times that explore Christian values and broader life questions.
Opportunities for prayer and stillness, encouraging pupils to develop personal beliefs and a sense of awe and wonder.
RE lessons exploring Christianity and other world faiths, promoting respect for different beliefs and practices.
Outdoor learning and creative arts that allow students to reflect on the beauty of nature and human expression.

Moral Development

Clear behaviour policies rooted in forgiveness, restoration, and responsibility, encouraging pupils to make wise choices.
PSHE lessons that tackle ethical issues such as justice, equality, and human rights.
Student-led initiatives (e.g. eco groups, charity work) that encourage reflection on personal and collective responsibilities.
Open discussions around right and wrong in history, literature, and current events, helping pupils develop empathy and moral reasoning.

Social Development

Team-building activities, school councils, and peer mentoring that promote leadership and collaboration.
Participation in community events and partnerships with local churches and charities.
Inclusive school culture where pupils learn to celebrate diversity, resolve conflicts peacefully, and respect others' views.
Group work in lessons and enrichment clubs (e.g. choir, sports, debate) that build cooperation and interpersonal skills.

Cultural Development

Curriculum content celebrating British heritage, alongside global perspectives in literature, music, and the arts.
Celebrating cultural festivals to build awareness and appreciation of global diversity.
Educational visits to museums, theatres, places of worship, and historical sites.
Exposure to diverse voices and experiences through literature, guest speakers, and intercultural dialogue projects.

British Values

Alkerden C of E Academy is committed to Fundamental British Values. The Trust actively promotes British Values in all of our academies. We aim to establish a strong community where all pupils are encouraged to demonstrate respect and tolerance through an inclusive nature, regardless of faith, race and culture.

Democracy
Rule of Law
Individual Liberty
Mutual Respect
Tolerance of those in our society of different faiths and beliefs

Equality Objectives

Our Trust’s overarching Equality Objectives help Alkerden to be an inclusive school where we focus on the well-being and progress of every child and where all members of our community are of equal worth. These are:

To use performance to monitor student achievement and respond to variations between groups of learners, subjects, courses, key stages, trends over time, and comparisons with other schools.
To provide professional development which continues to support staff to promote equality and diversity routinely in their daily activity.
To provide an environment that welcomes, protects and respects diverse people.
To ensure that all students are allowed to contribute positively to the school's life.
Foster ownership amongst our students for developing a set of positive behaviours that reflect the very best in all cultures, but reaffirm the understanding of and compliance with the rule of British law and British Values.
To address cultural events through yearly worship activities to increase student awareness and understanding of issues in different communities.