What is a courageous advocate?

A courageous advocate is someone who champions a cause which is special and meaningful to them.

At Patterdale Church of England Primary School we have a strong emphasis on encouraging our pupils to become courageous advocates, not just locally, but nationally and globally.

At some point in life we will all face challenges and need support to help us overcome these barriers. We teach our children that it is important to help others when we can no matter who they are, where they come from or what challenges they may face. We teach this through  learning about other courageous advocates.  Our Christian values and carefully planned opportunities in our curriculum ensure that the children regularly discuss and debate the big issues, to challenge injustice and to engage in activities that can bring about change.

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

Proverbs 31:8-9 

It is important for our children to appreciate their role as part of a community; to take responsibility, to be able to look after themselves & to foster an understanding of their importance, impact and influence in the world.

We support a range of charities in our local area, nationally and globally. The children identify worthy causes to support.  In recent years we have carried out a range of different fund raising to support many good causes, some of which include:

• Local food banks
• Great North Air Ambulance;
• Comic Relief;
•  Children in Need;
• The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal
• Children's Cancer
• Jigsaw (local children's hospice)
• Children's Society
• Diabetes UK

Our children have an excellent grasp on the meaning of belonging to a local and global community and the sense of responsibility that comes with belonging. Thereby developing their ability to empathise and make a small sacrifice to benefit others. Together we consider the beauty and fragility of our environment, the actions we take, and the impact these actions may have on the well-being of everyone. Our school community and curriculum actively embraces a responsibility for the world in which we live. We are diligent to show our connection with, and care for, the world in which we all live and care for the people who live in it.

• Links with the local surgery to promote our 'Health Walks'.
• Aid isolated people in the community by providing lunch and activities with the children in school 
• Developing links with schools locally, nationally and internationally (to learn about the similarities, differences & how we can help support/develop each other through these).

• School advertises and supports local events;
• Strong links with local cluster schools;
• Head Teacher writes in the local Parish newsletter to reach out to the community.