‘Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you.’ (Ephesians 4:32)

Throughout the Bible, God is described as slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin (Numbers 14:18) and Jesus is shown to be uncompromising in his command to forgive. Forgive, he said, ‘seventy times seven’ (Matthew 18:21), meaning forgive and keep on forgiving without limit.

At St James’ CE Primary, our children are encouraged to forgive each other. Forgiveness is associated with our Positive Relationships Policy. Children have many chances to reflect on their behaviour and make the right choices. Poor behaviour choices are always forgiven without a grudge and we enjoy a ‘new beginning’.

Children have an understanding that forgiveness is at the centre of Christian preaching. They make good behaviour choices, but when disagreements do occur, they are quickly resolved with a sincere apology and forgiveness.

Why did the Church Council choose this Christian value?

‘Because Jesus forgives his disciples. Jesus died on the cross.’ (Year 4 Church Council member)

‘A friend loves at all times.’ (Proverbs 17:17)

True friendship enables each person to grow and ensures that the unique individuality of each person is recognised.  Friendship is the special relationship we have with certain people – a friend loves and cares for you at all times. Christians believe that God’s friendship towards us will last forever. Friendship is a partnership of shared experiences, talents, interests and enthusiasms.

Friendship is an undisputed value in our school community and one that is based on trust. Children are encouraged to form friendships, regardless of religion or race or any other apparent difference.

Friendship groups of children at our school are often a mixture of gender, races and religions. Children and staff belong to one large family.

Why did the Church Council choose this Christian value?

‘Because Jesus is our friend and he is everyone’s friend even when we’re naughty.’ (Year 1 Church Council member)

‘Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.’ (1 John 3:18)

Honesty is being trustworthy and truthful in our friendships, our relationships, our school and our community. We understand that we need to be honest and truthful with others when working together as a team.

Why did the Church Council choose this Christian value?

‘Everyone needs to be honest because Jesus’ disciple [Peter] wasn’t honest [when he denied Jesus].’ (Year 3 Church Council member)

‘Do everything in love.’ (1 Corinthians 16:14)

‘We love because He first loved us.’ (1 John 4:19)

Love is the key Christian value as it lies at the root of all other values. It means respect, affection, benevolence, goodwill and concern for the welfare of the one loved. It is selfless and means putting others first.

Why did the Church Council choose this Christian value?

‘Love is why Jesus came into the world – to send out love.’ (Year 2 Church Council member)

‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.’ (John 14:27)

This is about positive harmony and healthy relationships between people. It involves spiritual as well as material security. Peace is a state of true wholeness, a state of well-being.

This value promotes harmony, stability and security within the school and local community.

Why did the Church Council choose this Christian value?

‘Because when Jesus was sent down there was peace.’ (Year 2 Church Council member)

‘Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.’ (Galatians 6:9)

Endurance is needed when standing firm in the face of any difficulty. It is the special gift that we have when life is difficult or painful that helps us not to give up.

Difficulties might include hardship, persecution or scorn, for example, although we hope these difficulties do not arise in our school. We use it more in the context of ‘keeping going’ and ‘not giving up’.

At its root, perseverance is a recognition that life is sometimes difficult and painful, and that it is important not to give up in the face of adversity.

Why did the Church Council choose this Christian value?

‘Because Jesus always said to try our best.’ (Year 4 Church Council member)