Personal Development Statement

As a Voluntary Aided Roman Catholic primary school, the religious character and ethos of St. Paul’s is central to every aspect of school life. Guided by our vision to “Be Like St. Paul”, we are committed to creating a safe, compassionate, and respectful environment where every child is nurtured to grow in faith, character, and confidence. Our approach to personal development is rooted in Gospel values and the mission of the Church, ensuring that pupils flourish as individuals and as part of a faith community.

Nurturing Spiritual, Moral, and Social Growth

The seven principles of Catholic Social Teaching — Life and Dignity of the Human Person, Call to Family, Community and Participation, Rights and Responsibilities, Option for the Poor and Vulnerable, The Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers, Solidarity, and Care for God’s Creation — underpin our policies, pastoral support, and curriculum. Our PSHE provision complements this, helping pupils develop a deep sense of moral purpose, respect for others, and an understanding of their responsibility to the wider world.

Promoting Fundamental Values for Life

We actively promote fundamental values that help children to live out their faith in today’s world. Pupils develop their voice and sense of citizenship through initiatives such as the visits to Parliament and Manifesto Monday. Weekly Picture News sessions provide a space to reflect on current issues, explore protected characteristics, link to CST, and understand how their values shape the world around them.

Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion

At St. Paul’s, we recognise and respect the dignity of every person. Pupils learn about other world faiths, such as Islam and Judaism, as part of the RE curriculum, and we celebrate World Faith Day to encourage dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect. Our  Linking Schools Project  further broadens perspectives, helping children to appreciate the beauty of diversity and their shared humanity.

Developing Leadership and Service

Pupils are encouraged to see themselves as leaders and witnesses to their faith. Our Chaplaincy Team and Caritas Ambassadors offer meaningful opportunities for KS2 children to take on roles of responsibility, plan events, and lead social action initiatives. Each class supports a local charity, encouraging pupils to respond to the needs of others and recognise their calling to serve.

Nurturing Wellbeing and Resilience

We value the dignity of every child and place great emphasis on their emotional and spiritual wellbeing. This is supported through calming spaces, access to the school chapel, and targeted programmes such as ELSA and Nurture sessions. Pupils are taught strategies to build resilience, reflect on their experiences, and grow in confidence and self-belief.

Enriching the Curriculum

A rich programme of extra-curricular activities, educational visits, and enrichment opportunities helps pupils discover their gifts and talents beyond the classroom. Celebrations such as St. Paul’s Got Talent reflect our belief in the unique value of each child and the importance of nurturing their God-given potential.

Promoting Healthy Lifestyles

Pupils learn how to care for themselves and for creation through activities like the Daily Mile, healthy eating initiatives, and hands-on experiences with our school chickens and fish tanks. These opportunities promote responsibility, stewardship, and respect for God’s creation.