What is a School of Sanctuary?

A School of Sanctuary is a school that is committed to being a safe and a welcoming place for all, especially those seeking a place of sanctuary. This could be people whose lives were in danger in their own country, who have troubles at home or are just looking for a safe space. A School of Sanctuary is a place that promotes a welcoming culture and a place of safety to those seeking sanctuary, including asylum-seeking and refugee families. It is a school that builds empathy and awareness of such issues and encourages children, parents, staff and the wider community to welcome those seeking sanctuary.

A School of Sanctuary helps its school community to understand what it means to be seeking sanctuary and to extend a welcome to everyone as equal, valued members of the community. It is a school that is proud to be a place of safety and inclusion for all.

 

Becoming a School of Sanctuary

There are three simple principles to being a School of Sanctuary:

· Learn about what it means to be seeking sanctuary.

· Take positive action to embed concepts of welcome, safety and inclusion within school and     the wider community.

· Share your vision and achievements – be proud!

 

School of Sanctuary Award

The School of Sanctuary Award was given to Hadrian in November 2025, in recognition of our good practice in fostering a safe and inclusive school environment, building understanding and empathy towards people seeking safety, and working collaboratively to strengthen community approaches to welcoming refugee children and families.

 

Why being a School of Sanctuary is important?

· Building a Welcoming Community: creating a culture of welcome, belonging, and inclusion for all, including those who may be new to the school or the country.

· Creating a Safe Space: providing a safe and supportive environment where children can feel comfortable expressing their identities and sharing their experiences.

· Enhancing School Culture: actively involved in promoting a positive school culture that embraces diversity and inclusion.

· Making a Difference: making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals seeking sanctuary, helping them feel welcomed and supported.

This is our 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.

Have a look at the exciting things we are doing at Hadrian School as we work towards becoming a School of Sanctuary: School of Sanctuary Padlet