We are delighted to announce that we have been officially recognised as a School of Sanctuary. This is a national award that celebrates schools that go above and beyond to offer a warm, welcoming, and safe environment for those seeking sanctuary, including refugees and asylum seekers.
This significant achievement reflects the hard work, compassion, and dedication of our entire school community. The process involved submitting a detailed application supported by comprehensive evidence of our inclusive practice, followed by a thorough appraisal visit from a panel of external assessors.
In their final report, assessors praised the Academy, stating:
“Bishop Young Academy is a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant school community that clearly embodies the values of the Schools of Sanctuary programme. Its Christian values, rich curriculum, strong TEFL provision, and commitment to student voice demonstrate a whole-school approach to fostering empathy, understanding and belonging.”
At Bishop Young, we believe that every child should feel safe, valued, and empowered to thrive. The recognition highlights the our steadfast commitment to our Christian vision:
“Being a safe and welcoming family, where all God’s children are valued and all are enabled to flourish is an ethos that shines through in every aspect of school life.”
From vibrant student-led initiatives and thoughtfully planned cultural events, to practical and compassionate support for new arrivals, the assessors noted how our ethos is not just aspirational, it is evident in our daily practice.
“The school celebrates diversity through engaging events, powerful visual displays, and student-led initiatives that actively promote a culture of welcome. Staff training is thoughtful and well-embedded, and the school’s support for new arrivals is both practical and compassionate.”
In addition, our strong TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) provision ensures that students who are new to English receive tailored support to integrate smoothly into the school and wider community. We are proud of the way our students and staff have embraced the principles of sanctuary, working together to create an inclusive culture where every student feels a sense of belonging.
“Bishop Young stands as a shining example of a school that lives out the vision of sanctuary in its everyday practice and is well-positioned to continue inspiring others.”
Achieving School of Sanctuary status is not the end of the journey—it marks the beginning of a renewed commitment to inclusion, understanding, and compassion. We will continue to grow and build upon this recognition, working with students, families, and the wider community to ensure Bishop Young Academy remains a place of sanctuary for all.
For more information, please visit: https://schools.cityofsanctuary.org/
