UNICEF UK has awarded Bronze Rights Respecting School Status to St Benedict’s Catholic Primary School in recognition of the school’s commitment to promoting children’s rights and ensuring pupils feel valued, respected and heard.
The Midsomer Norton school, part of Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, achieved the milestone through work to embed the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child into everyday school life. The award celebrates the school’s efforts to create a culture of dignity, fairness and respect across the school community, while encouraging children to develop confidence and a strong sense of belonging.
A special mention was given to Mrs Winter and the school’s Rights Rangers for their contribution towards the achievement. The school is now aiming to progress towards Silver Rights Respecting School Status.
The Rights Respecting Schools Award programme, run by UNICEF UK, recognises schools that put children’s rights at the heart of education. More than 1.6 million children across the UK attend Rights Respecting Schools, with more than 5,000 schools currently working towards accreditation.
Ellen Croker, headteacher at St Benedict’s Catholic Primary School, said, “We are incredibly proud to achieve Bronze Rights Respecting Status. This award recognises the dedication of our staff and pupils to creating a school where every child feels valued, respected and heard. It’s a fantastic milestone and we are excited to continue our journey towards Silver.”
Helen Taylor, CEO of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, said, “St Benedict’s commitment to embedding children’s rights into daily school life is inspiring. Achieving Bronze status is a reflection of the whole school community working together to nurture respectful, confident and empowered young people.”
