Rights Respecting School/Global Learning
We are proud to be a Bronze Rights Respecting School; we are working towards our Silver Level.
Rights are at the centre of all we do. Regular days focusing on different Rights take place across the year. See our Facebook page for regualr updates.
There are four key areas of impact for children at a Rights Respecting school; wellbeing, participation, relationships and self-esteem. The difference that a Rights Respecting School makes goes beyond the school gates, making a positive impact on the whole community.
Children are healthier and happier
By promoting the values of respect, dignity and non-discrimination, children’s self-esteem and wellbeing is boosted and they are less likely to suffer from stress. A child who understands their rights understands how they and others should be treated and their sense of self-worth is strengthened.
- 97% of headteachers at Rights Respecting Schools said the award had improved children’s respect for themselves and each other
- 93% of headteachers at Rights Respecting Schools said the award had helped children to embrace diversity and overcome prejudices
- “We all know our rights and know that if our rights aren’t respected we can do something.” – Pupil
Children feel safe
The Rights Respecting Schools Award gives children a powerful language to use to express themselves and to challenge the way they are treated. They are also able to challenge injustices for other children. Children and young people are empowered to access information that enables them to make informed decisions about their learning, health and wellbeing.
- 76% of headteachers at Rights Respecting Schools say the award has helped to reduce bulling and exclusions
- In some cases children have been able to use the language of rights to tell teachers they do not feel safe at home or in their community, whether that’s because of violence, abuse or neglect
- “Learning about rights has made them [children] more confident about speaking out. They are more confident and articulate.” – Parent
"Since becoming rights respecting our children feel happier, safe and confident and are ready to learn"
Children have better relationships
Both with their teachers and their peers, based on mutual respect and the value of everyone’s opinion. In a Rights Respecting school children are treated as equals by their fellow pupils and by the adults in the school. Children and young people are involved in how the Award is implement in the school but are also involved in strategic decision-making; in decisions about their learning; and in views about their well-being.
- 98% of headteachers at Rights Respecting Schools said the Award had improved relationships and behaviour
- “Our views are taken very seriously. Our opinion matters because we are the pupils, we know what it is like in the school and their (adults) perspective is different from ours.” – Pupil
Children become active and involved in school life and the wider world
This builds their confidence to make informed decisions. They have a moral framework, based on equality and respect for all that lasts a lifetime, as they grow into engaged, responsible members of society. Children and adults develop an ethos and language of rights and respect around the school. Rights and principles of the Convention are used to put moral situations into perspective and consider rights-respecting solutions – this all has a huge impact on relationships and well-being. Children and young people get very involved in raising awareness about social justice issues, both at home and abroad. They become ambassadors for rights and take part in campaigns and activities to help to bring about change.
- 93% of headteachers at Rights Respecting Schools said the award contributed to children and young people being more engaged in their learning.
- “RRSA has changed the way I teach, I have the rights in my head when I do planning but also when working pastorally. When there is a problem I say ‘you have the right to be heard and I will listen to you.” – Teacher
