CHRISTIAN ETHOS
At High Hurstwood CofE Primary School, our Christian foundation shapes everything we do. We are proud to be a Church of England school where Christian values aren't just words on a wall – they're lived out every day in our classrooms, playground, and wider community.
Educating the Whole Child
We believe education is about much more than academic achievement. While we're committed to helping every child reach their full potential in their learning, we recognise that spiritual growth is equally important. Our approach nurtures:
- Spiritual development – helping children explore faith, meaning and purpose
- Moral development – building strong character and understanding of right and wrong
- Social development – learning to work together, show respect and build friendships
- Cultural development – appreciating diversity and different perspectives
This holistic approach is woven throughout our carefully planned curriculum, ensuring every child develops as a well-rounded individual.
Our Christian Values in Action
Our Christian ethos is expressed through four core values that guide everything we do:
- Belief: We encourage children to believe in themselves, in each other, and in their ability to make a positive difference. Through our Christian foundation, children explore what it means to have faith – both in God and in their own potential. We celebrate effort, perseverance and the courage to try new things.
- Curiosity: We foster a love of learning and encourage children to ask questions, explore the world around them, and wonder at God's creation. Our curriculum inspires children to be inquisitive, to seek understanding, and to develop a lifelong passion for discovery.
- Kindness: Rooted in Jesus's teaching to 'love your neighbour as yourself', kindness is at the heart of our school community. Children learn to show compassion, empathy and care for others – both within our school family and in the wider world. Through acts of service and support for one another, we build a culture where everyone feels valued.
- Resilience: We help children develop the strength to overcome challenges, learn from setbacks, and keep going when things are difficult. Drawing on Christian teachings about hope and perseverance, we equip children with the emotional and spiritual resources they need to face life's ups and downs with courage and determination.
These values connect directly to our school vision – find out more on our Vision and Values page.
Part of the Church of England Family
Church of England schools offer a distinctively Christian education. While each church school is unique, we all share core values rooted in the Gospel. At High Hurstwood, loving God and loving our neighbours isn't just an aspiration – it's how we live together every day.
We aim to serve our community by providing the highest quality education within the context of Christian belief and practice. We encourage all our pupils to:
- Understand the meaning and significance of faith
- Experience Christian values in action
- Develop their own spiritual awareness
Celebrating Together
Each July, our Year 6 pupils attend the Diocese of Chichester Leavers Service at All Saints Church in Crowborough – a special occasion that marks their journey through primary school.
This moving service brings together church schools from across the region. Our pupils play an active role by:
- Singing in the congregation or choir
- Reading prayers and Bible passages
- Acting out readings
- Processing with candles or carrying our school banner
It's a wonderful celebration of their time with us and a meaningful way to mark their transition to secondary school.
Our Diocesan Links
We are proud members of the Diocese of Chichester family of schools, which provides support, guidance and a network of fellow church schools.
As a Voluntary Controlled Church of England Primary School, we maintain close links with our local church community and the wider Anglican family.
Useful Links: