We are currently a Bronze Rights Respecting school and are working very hard to become Silver – Rights Aware. We are very proud of the work our Rights Respecting Steering Group (led by children) are currently doing to see that we receive this very important accolade.
The Rights Respecting Schools Award puts children’s rights at the heart of its community. The charity 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. The Award embeds these values in daily school life and gives children the best chance to lead happy, healthy lives and to be responsible, active citizens.
At Esh Winning Primary School, we recognise the importance of putting the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child at the heart of our school and beyond. As a school we have developed all new policies to allow the Convention to drive our thinking and practice. Our Outdoor Learning Day was developed around the Convention and we used this opportunity to educate our wider community on the rights of every child. Our school is filled with reminders of the rights children are receiving (as “rights holders”) and the responsibilities that the adults undertake (as “duty bearers”). The steering group are also developing a map to show everyone where our rights can be found. Each class has developed their own Class Charter which all members of the class have signed to show they understand and respect the charter. Children can now see their actions, activities and experiences through their understanding of rights. Some classes have also had the opportunity to look at issues in the world or in history where children have not had their rights. This has proved to be incredibly powerful and has allowed children to really become informed global citizens.
As part of the Award we have conducted questionnaires across school to evidence that our children are healthier and happier; feel safe; and have better relationships. Our evidence shows that there has been a significant impact in our school. We can already see the benefit of taking part in this award for our children, families, staff and community. We hope to continue our journey to become a Gold Award school and be truly rights respecting.
If you would like further information regarding our Rights Respecting journey, do not hesitate to contact the school office. The lead teacher is Mrs Grainger and she will be very happy to give further information.
UNICEF Rights Respecting Schools
Some photos from our very successful Community Outdoor Learning Day which was developed around the United Nations Convention for the Rights of the Child
