Spirit of Bishop Aldhelm's

Spirit of Bishop Aldhelm's

We are a dynamic and forward-thinking Church of England school where every child is known, valued and loved.

Inspired by the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), we encourage everyone to notice, care for and serve those around them. Following the example of Jesus, we seek to build a community where love is put into action and where every person is treated with dignity and respect.

We believe that childhood is precious. Education is not only about academic success; it is about helping children to flourish, to discover who they are, to develop their God-given gifts, and to live well alongside others. As stewards of the next generation, we seek to build something that will outlive us: a community shaped by faith, hope and love.

 

Our Vision

Loved by God; United in Learning

 

The Parable of the Good Samaritan

 

The man answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind’; and ‘Love your neighbour as you love yourself.’”

(Luke 10:27)

Guided by God the Father, inspired by Jesus Christ, and strengthened by the Holy Spirit, we strive to help every member of our community flourish.

We are Bishop Aldhelm's.

 

Our Spiritual Journey

Through worship, reflection and daily life, we encourage children to explore four key questions:

Self

Who am I?

We help children understand that they are uniquely created and deeply loved by God. We nurture confidence, resilience and self-worth, enabling every child to recognise their value and purpose.

Others

How should I treat people?

Following the example of Jesus, we encourage children to show kindness, empathy and forgiveness. We learn that flourishing is not achieved alone but through positive relationships, service and community.

World

What is my responsibility?

We help children become active citizens who care for others and work for justice. Inspired by the Good Samaritan, we seek to stand alongside those in need, recognising the dignity of every person and striving for the common good.

Beyond

What gives life meaning and hope?

We create opportunities for children to explore faith, spirituality and life's big questions. Through prayer, worship and reflection, we encourage wonder, hope and a deeper understanding of God's presence in the world.

 

At Bishop Aldhelm's we seek to ensure that everyone:

 

Loves

• Knows they are valued, cherished and loved by God.
• Shows compassion and kindness to others.
• Recognises the dignity and worth of every person.

 

Has Courage

• Faces challenges with resilience, optimism and hope.
• Stands up for what is right and just.
• Embraces change and new opportunities with confidence.

 

Lives in Unity

• Flourishes through positive relationships and belonging.
• Celebrates diversity and values different perspectives.
• Works together for the common good.

 

Thinks Creatively

• Is curious about the world and their place within it.
• Develops imagination, innovation and adaptability.
• Uses their gifts to serve others and make a positive difference.

 

Shows Respect

• Treats everyone with dignity, empathy and fairness.
• Acts as a responsible steward of God's world.
• Helps build a more just and compassionate society.

At Bishop Aldhelm's, we hold children's hands for a moment but their hearts for a lifetime. Through God's love, the example of Jesus and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we nurture children who are ready to flourish, serve others and help build a better world for all.

The statements within our Spirit are all equally valued and important.

 

 

SIAMS

Our most recent SIAMS inspection took place in November 2023. You can read our report here:

St Aldhelm's Church

Bishop Aldhelm's C.E. Primary School enjoys very close links with the parish of St Aldhelm's, Branksome. We attend the church for worship during special occasions throughout the year. 

Our children are familiar with the history of St Aldhelm and our Year 6 children enjoy a pilgrimage to St Aldhelm's Head on the Purbeck coastline before leaving for secondary school. 

Rev. Nigel is the priest at St. Aldhelm's Church. He, along with other visitors, regularly leads worship. Daily worship is celebrated in all year groups. Children are welcome at all of the main church services. There is a children's area with books and quiet toys available. 

Families do have the right to withdraw their children from school-based worship by informing the Head Teacher in writing. 

The church also welcomes any baptism enquiries as well as any requests for prayer and pastoral support for children and families associated with the school. 

The website for the parish church of St Aldhelm's Branksome is www.st-aldhelm.com. The church also produces amonthly parish magazine to which the school contributes a double-page spread to share our recent activities with the wider community; free copies are available from either the church or school office.