At St Joseph’s Catholic School in Newton Aycliffe, we believe every person deserves safety, dignity and a true sense of belonging. That’s why we are proud to announce that we are actively working towards becoming a City of Sanctuary Supporting Organisation.

This journey reflects our commitment to building a more welcoming, inclusive and compassionate school community—one where all families, including those seeking sanctuary, feel seen, supported and valued.

What Is a City of Sanctuary Supporting Organisation?

City of Sanctuary UK celebrates institutions that go above and beyond to welcome people seeking sanctuary. Their Sanctuary Award programme recognises organisations—such as schools, universities, councils, faith groups, libraries and arts organisations—that embed welcome and inclusion at the heart of all they do.

Awards are rigorously appraised by a panel that includes someone with lived experience of seeking sanctuary, as well as sector specialists. This ensures that recognition is meaningful, truly reflective of good practice, and inspiring for others.

All awards last for three years, after which organisations renew their commitment through a re‑accreditation process.

Why This Matters to St Joseph’s

Our work towards this award builds on our long‑standing values of compassion, solidarity and love for our neighbour. Becoming a Supporting Organisation means we are striving to:

Learn

  • Deepen our understanding of what it means to seek sanctuary.
  • Raise awareness among pupils, families and staff about the experiences of people seeking asylum and refuge.

Embed

  • Ensure welcome, inclusion and support are woven into school life.
  • Take practical steps that make St Joseph’s a safe, friendly and empowering environment for everyone.

Share

  • Celebrate the contributions that people seeking sanctuary bring to our society.
  • Promote the message that a culture of welcome benefits everybody.

These principles sit at the heart of the City of Sanctuary Charter, which guides organisations striving to create compassionate communities.

A Modern Approach to Local Welcome

Historically, City of Sanctuary recognised whole towns and cities. But since 2020, the approach has shifted to focus on individual institutions—schools, councils, universities and more—creating a much richer and more sustainable “tapestry of welcome” across local areas.

As a school, we are proud to be part of this modern movement: one that recognises that every organisation, large or small, has a role in building a more humane, understanding society.

Our Commitment Moving Forward

By working towards our Sanctuary Supporting Organisation Award, St Joseph’s is continuing its mission to live out our values in practical and transformative ways. Over the coming months, we will be:

  • Running awareness‑raising activities and educational sessions
  • Strengthening policies and practices that support inclusion
  • Celebrating the stories, strengths and cultural richness of sanctuary‑seeking families
  • Connecting with local partners to widen our impact

We look forward to sharing our progress with you—and to celebrating together once we achieve this meaningful award.

A Community of Welcome

At St Joseph’s, we believe hospitality is more than an action—it’s a mindset. Together with our pupils, families and wider community, we are building a school where kindness is active, inclusion is intentional, and every person feels they have a place.

Thank you for supporting us on this important journey. We are excited to continue learning, growing and welcoming—together.