The Willows as a UNCRC Rights Respecting School

At The Willows, children’s rights are at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to be a UNICEF Rights Respecting School, which means we place the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) at the centre of our school culture, policies, teaching and relationships.

Being a Rights Respecting School is about more than learning facts about rights. It is about creating a community where every child feels safe, valued, heard and able to thrive.

Children learn that they have rights, that others have rights too and that with rights come responsibilities to treat others with respect and fairness.

 

The 6 Rights That Shape Life at The Willows

While we teach children about the full range of children’s rights, we place particular focus on six key articles. These rights guide our decisions, our curriculum and the way we care for every child.

Article 2 – The Right to Non-Discrimination

Every child is treated fairly and equally, no matter who they are, where they come from or what their needs may be. Inclusion, respect and celebrating difference are central to our school community.

Article 12 – The Right to Be Heard

Children’s voices matter. Pupils at The Willows are encouraged to share their views, take part in decisions and express their feelings safely. From class discussions to school council, we ensure children know their opinions are valued.

Article 19 – The Right to Be Safe

Children have the right to be protected from harm. Safeguarding, emotional wellbeing and creating a calm, secure environment are top priorities. We work hard to help children feel safe both physically and emotionally.

Article 24 – The Right to Health

We support children’s physical and mental health through nurturing relationships, wellbeing support, healthy routines and learning about how to care for their bodies and minds.

Article 28 – The Right to Education

Every child has the right to an education that helps them reach their full potential. At The Willows, we provide tailored, adaptive and supportive learning experiences that build confidence, skills and a love of learning.

Article 31 – The Right to Rest, Play and Leisure

Play and creativity are essential for development. We value enrichment, outdoor learning, creative activities and opportunities for children to relax, explore and enjoy being children.

 

What This Means in Daily School Life

At The Willows, children’s rights shape:

• Our relationships – built on respect, kindness and understanding.
• Our curriculum – which helps children understand themselves, others and the world.
• Our behaviour approach – focused on dignity, fairness and restoring relationships.
• Our pupil voice – giving children real opportunities to influence school life.
• Our environment – a safe, welcoming space where everyone belongs.

 

By learning about their rights, children also learn about responsibility, empathy and respect for others. This helps them grow into thoughtful, confident individuals who understand their value and the value of those around them.

At The Willows, rights are not just something we learn about, they are something we live every day.

For more information on The United Nations Convention for the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) please visit:

https://www.unicef.org.uk/what-we-do/un-convention-child-rights/

https://www.unicef.org.uk/rights-respecting-schools/the-rrsa/what-is-a-rights-respecting-school/