Introduction 

Our school vision outlines that our children are cherished and valued for their individuality and uniqueness. At Henley Green Primary school, we recognise and value our pupil's home language and background.

We believe that cultural and linguistic diversity is a rich resource for the whole school and we take a whole school approach through our ethos, curriculum and promoting language awareness across our school.

                                                                                                      (Taken from EAL policy September 2025)

                                                                              

• A School of Sanctuary is a school that has received a Sanctuary Award from City of Sanctuary UK (or a partner organisation) in recognition of its good practice in fostering a culture of welcome, belonging and inclusion for those seeking safety. **City of Sanctuary UK is a small refugee-sector charity that works to build a movement of welcome in the UK
• Our aim at Henley Green is to become a School of Sanctuary which means we would receive an award if we are able to show that we welcome everyone including those families seeking safety.
• The Schools of Sanctuary programme raises awareness of the experiences of people seeking safety and plays a key role in building a culture of kindness and compassion. 
• More than 600 schools across the UK have already earned the School of Sanctuary award in recognition of their efforts, with hundreds more currently working towards the award.

A school must take an intentional and reflective approach to reviewing and refining school practice in relevant areas and demonstrate the fulfilment of the eight minimum criteria below – this is what we are currently working on.

Sanctuary Ambassadors

This group of Year 5 and 6 children below applied for the role of Sanctuary Ambassadors and completed training, so they know how to welcome, include and support all new children to our school.

Celebrating Refugee Week 15th – 21st June 2026

                                                                                                https://refugeeweek.org/

Every year, in June, Refugee Week helps to highlight the experience of refugees.

It takes place across the world and helps us to gain a better understanding of refugees’ experiences.

 Refugee Week also helps us to appreciate the ways in which refugees have contributed positively to their country of refuge where they have sought safety.

Refugee Week 2026 focuses on coming together, sharing the courage to welcome, to stand for what we believe in, and to celebrate culture, community and to connect.

The theme this year is 'Courage' 

For refugees around the world, courage is often needed every day.

It is the courage to face unknown journeys, learn new languages, work out something unfamiliar or simply to wake up each morning and step into an uncertain world.

During the month of October we celebrated Black History Month.

The aims of Black History Month are to:

Promote knowledge of Black History, Culture and Heritage 

Disseminate information on positive Black contributions to British Society

Heighten the confidence and awareness of Black people to their cultural heritage

The theme this year is ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’.