Christian Ethos
At Wilmcote C of E Primary School, everything we do is inspired by our distinctive, loving, and inclusive Christian ethos, which is rooted in our core vision and the biblical phrase "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men" from Matthew 4:19. Our primary motivation is love, ensuring that every decision and action is made with the best interests of each child at the forefront. We believe that God created everyone with unique talents, gifts, and potential, and we are called to learn, grow, and succeed together, using our abilities to help others and make a positive difference in the world. Our aim is to foster happy, confident, loving, and caring staff and children who value themselves, each other, their world, and their relationship with God or the Beyond, enabling everyone to flourish and fulfil their potential.
We place an equal emphasis on developing the whole child in every way, inspired by our vision to become "fishers of men," which means discovering purpose, building community, growing as individuals, and making a positive impact:
Academically
We encourage excellence and strive for great progress, delivering memorable learning experiences that excite and engage, fostering lifelong learners. Our vision embraces academic rigour within a wider framework of human flourishing for all.
Physically
We support healthy growth, increasing skill, and respect for our bodies, recognising the importance of physical challenges and emotional responses in sport.
Mentally
We secure a healthy, joyful, mature outlook, building resilience, and supporting mental health and understanding of feelings through subjects like PSHE. We also encourage reflection and stillness as "vitamins for flourishing".
Spiritually
We develop an appreciation of beliefs, their impact, and influence on our lives, fostering curiosity and wonder. Our understanding of spirituality is rooted in the "Fishers of Men" concept, guiding us to explore our unique talents and contribute positively to the world. We simplify spirituality through four key relationships: Self (awareness of inner thoughts and uniqueness), Others (empathy and meaningful relationships), Beauty (appreciating the physical and creative world), and Beyond (exploring meaning and connection to God). We use the "Windows, Mirrors, Doors" analogy to explore "WOWS," "OWS," and "NOWS" of life, encouraging reflection and active responses.
Morally
We mature in an understanding of behaviour, law, and ethics, helping everyone develop values, empathy, and a strong moral compass. Our core values of Friendship, Kindness, Respect, and Trust guide how we treat others and approach difficult conversations within a framework of love. We focus on restorative practices, valuing forgiveness and repairing relationships.
Socially
We build and maintain healthy relationships as a collaborative community, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging children to be active and caring members of their community. This aligns with being "fishers of men" by building up our communities and making the world a better place. Our approach is rooted in the concept of Incarnation, meaning we walk alongside others in both good and challenging times.
Culturally
We identify the responsibilities and opportunities presented in our society, promoting cultural understanding, valuing diversity, and connecting with the global Christian community through figures like St. Andrew, the first "fisher of men" called by Jesus.