School of Sanctuary
What is a School of Sanctuary?
A School of Sanctuary is a school that is committed to being a safe and welcoming place for those in need. It is a place of peace for those who have fled danger, a place of stability for those who may experience troubles at home or a place of comfort for those overwhelmed by anxiety.
A School of Sanctuary is a school that recognises and celebrates every member of the school community as equally valued and unique. It enables all students, staff and visitors to understand what it means to be seeking sanctuary and to feel a part of the family.
There are three simple principles to being a School of Sanctuary:
1. LEARN about what it means to be seeking sanctuary.
2. Take ACTION to embed concepts of welcome, safety and inclusion within school and the wider community.
3. SHARE your vision and achievements – be proud!
Our School of Sanctuary Pledge
“We support the ‘City of Sanctuary’ vision that the UK will be a welcoming place of safety for all and proud to offer sanctuary to people fleeing violence and persecution.
“We endorse the City of Sanctuary Charter, and agree to act in accordance with City of Sanctuary values and apply the network principles within our work (as far as our specific context enables us to).
“We recognise the contribution of people seeking sanctuary. Sanctuary seekers are welcomed, included and supported within our context. We expect our branches or local groups (if any) to support their local City of Sanctuary group if one exists, and will facilitate contact between them and their local City of Sanctuary group.”
If you would like to know more about Schools of Sanctuary, please click here.
Helpful links
UNHCR (The UN Refugee Agency) UK