Vision & Values

Vision

Our school vision statement, “We will grow together in Curiosity, Creativity, and Community.” consists of four distinct elements, forming the foundation of everything we do at Bishopstone.

Our vision has been shaped by input from all members of our school community and is written for everyone within it. We all have an important role in bringing our vision and values to life—ensuring that they are more than just words on a page or a sign on a wall.

Our school vision has been inspired by Jesus’ words in Mark 4:30-32, where he says:

"The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches."

We chose this as inspiration because, like the mustard seed, Bishopstone may be the smallest school in Swindon’s local authority, but we welcome everyone to come, grow, and flourish with us.

We believe that through faith, even the smallest seed grows strong. Therefore, we strive to make the most of every opportunity, growing into the best version of ourselves and making a positive contribution to the world.

Within each of the four elements, we have identified the key values and aims listed below:

Learning together

Aim: We want our children to be courageous in learning and living, putting our values into practice with passion and commitment. We want them to have the courage to challenge and change the world around them for the better.

Linked Bible Verses to our values:

Courage: Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid...for the Lord your God will be with you. (Joshua 1:9)

Perseverance: I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)

Continuously Curious

Aim: We want our children to develop a lifelong love of learning—approaching the world with curiosity, wonder, and a willingness to grow. We encourage them to ask questions, seek understanding, and embrace challenges with courage and perseverance. We want them to boldly explore new ideas, knowing that learning is a journey that shapes them and the world around them.

Linked Bible Verses:

Curiosity: If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5)

Hope for Growth and the Future: For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)

A caring community

Aim: We want our children, parents, staff and governors to care for each other; to respect and trust each other and to encourage and listen to each other. We want the children to learn how to care for the wider world as responsible, kind and generous individuals putting the needs of others before their own.

Linked Bible Verses:

Friendship and Love: Love your neighbour as yourself. (Luke 10:27)

Thankfulness: Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." (Colossians 3:15)

Creatively Inspired

Aim: We want to nurture creativity in our children—encouraging them to think boldly, express themselves uniquely, and embrace the wonder of new possibilities. We believe creativity fuels curiosity, problem-solving, and a love for learning. By inspiring their imagination, we empower them to shape the world with purpose, joy, and innovation.

Linked Bible Verses:

Creativity: We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works. (Ephesians 2:10)

Inspiration: I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (John 10:10)

Connected through our vision

Both the visions of our school community at Bishopstone CE Primary School and that of St Mary’s Church, through the Church of England for Education are intrinsically connected. Both emphasise growth, abundance, and the fullness of life in God's Kingdom. The abundant life that Jesus promises (John 10:10) aligns with the growth of God's Kingdom (Mark 4:30-32), which, though starting small, transforms lives and communities.

The Church of England

Our vision for education is deeply Christian, with Jesus' promise of 'life in all its fullness' at its heart.
In line with the Church of England's role as the established Church, our vision is for the common good of the whole community.

Educating for wisdom, knowledge and skills: enabling discipline, confidence and delight in seeking wisdom and knowledge, and developing talents in all areas of life.

Educating for hope and aspiration: enabling healing, repair and renewal, coping wisely when things go wrong, opening horizons and guiding people into ways of fulfilling them.

Educating for community and living well together: a core focus on relationships, participation in communities and the qualities of character that enable people to flourish together.

Educating for dignity and respect: the basic principle of respect for the value and preciousness of each person, treating each person as a unique individual of inherent worth.

Flourishing in Christ means embracing the fullness of life, growing in faith, and becoming a source of blessing to the world - just like the tiny mustard seed that grows into something extraordinary.

Values

Our school has adopted the three core Christian values of Friendship, Thankfulness and Perseverance.

Friends love each other the same way Christ loves us (John 15:12-13)

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9)

This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24)

British Values

In 2011, the government defined British Values as democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. At Bishopstone, we actively promote these values through our school ethos, curriculum, and enrichment activities.

We take seriously our responsibility to prepare children for life in modern Britain. Fundamental British Values are introduced, discussed, and embedded within our Christian ethos and daily school life. Our curriculum provides excellent opportunities for children to deepen their understanding of these values.

We make considerable efforts to broaden children's experiences beyond their immediate environment. Through educational trips, community engagement, and participation in a wide range of events, we provide meaningful exposure to different perspectives. Our aim is to equip children with the knowledge, respect, and confidence to embrace diversity and thrive in a multicultural society.

Spirituality at Bishopstone CE Primary School

Spirituality is a core component of flourishing and growth, as shown in Mark 4:30-32. Just as the mustard seed starts small and grows into a great tree, our spiritual journey begins with small steps of faith and deepens over time.

Spirituality is about seeking meaning, purpose, and connection — it shapes how we understand ourselves and our place in the world. It is not dependent on a religious belief but reflects a universal human experience: the search for identity, belonging, and deeper truth.

The mustard seed’s transformation reflects this journey. From humble beginnings: faith, wisdom and inner strength grow, impacting not just the individual but the wider community. True flourishing happens when the mind, body, and soul are nurtured together, leading to a life of fulfilment, resilience, and service to others.

The four elements in our definition of Spirituality consist of:

Ourselves:

Awareness of our own feelings
Awareness of our uniqueness
Being happy with who we are
Being thankful for the things we have and the person we are
Exploring personal faith
Development of our imagination and creativity

Others:

Empathy and understanding
Respect and tolerance
To love others as you would want to be loved
Making a difference in the lives of others

World:

Developing a sense of awe and wonder
Enjoying the miracles of everyday life
Taking time for what really matters
Appreciating beauty in the arts and in the natural world

Beyond:

Having a sense of what lies beyond the material and the physical
Ability to ask and discuss the ‘Big Questions’ (e.g. about life, death, suffering, the nature of God)
Opportunities for prayer, connecting with God
Making sense of the world