School of Sanctuary
In 2025, at St. Michael’s, we are proud to be striving to earn the School of Sanctuary award by being a place of welcome, safety, and inclusion for all.
What is a School of Sanctuary?
A School of Sanctuary is a school that is committed to creating a culture of welcome and belonging for everyone, especially those seeking sanctuary. It is part of a national network of schools that celebrate diversity, promote understanding, and actively support those who have experienced displacement due to conflict, persecution, or hardship.
Learn more about Schools of Sanctuary: https://schools.cityofsanctuary.org/home/about
Why St. Michael’s?
St. Michael’s is a school shaped by movement, migration, and refuge. Located in the heart of Handsworth, a community synonymous with migration, our school reflects the rich diversity of the world. With over 30 languages spoken and a student body that is constantly evolving and transient, we are a living example of what it means to be a sanctuary.
On average, less than half of the children who join us in Reception remain until Year 6. This movement brings both challenges and incredible opportunities — to learn from one another, to grow in empathy, and to build a community that is resilient, compassionate, and inclusive.
Our Vision
“To embody the love of God while championing justice and inspiring service.”
As a Christian school, our vision is rooted in the teachings of Jesus, who was himself a refugee. The Bible reminds us:
“Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt.”
— Exodus 22:21
We believe that welcoming the stranger is not just an act of kindness — it is a sacred duty.
Jesus the Refugee
Jesus is considered a refugee because of the events described in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 2. Shortly after Jesus was born, King Herod learned from the visiting Magi (wise men) that a new “king of the Jews” had been born. Fearing a threat to his power, Herod ordered the massacre of all boys under the age of two in Bethlehem — an event known as the Massacre of the Innocents.
To escape this danger, Joseph (Jesus’ earthly father) was warned in a dream to flee. He took Mary and the infant Jesus and escaped to Egypt, where they lived as refugees until Herod died. Only then did they return to their homeland.
This story is significant because:
- It shows that Jesus and his family experienced forced displacement, fleeing violence and persecution.
- It connects deeply with the experiences of many modern refugees who are forced to leave their homes for safety.
- It reminds Christians that God identifies with the vulnerable and displaced, and calls His followers to show compassion and hospitality to those in need.
A School of Faith
While we are a Christian school, we are also a school of many faiths. Our community includes significant numbers of Sikh and Muslim families, and we celebrate the shared values that unite us.
- In Sikhism, the principle of Sarbat da Bhala — the well-being of all — teaches us to care for everyone, regardless of background or status. Guru Nanak’s teachings emphasise equality, compassion, and service to humanity.
- In Islam, the Prophet Muhammad was himself a refugee, and the Qur’an teaches believers to protect and support those in need:“And if anyone seeks your protection, then grant him protection… and escort him to where he can be secure.” — Qur’an 9:6
These teachings inspire us to be a school where every child feels safe, valued, and loved.
What Sanctuary Looks Like at St. Michael’s
- A curriculum that celebrates global cultures and histories
- Staff trained in trauma-informed and inclusive practices
- A welcoming environment for new arrivals and their families
- Strong partnerships with local organisations supporting refugees and asylum seekers
- A student voice that champions justice and inclusion
St. Michael’s is more than a school — it is a sanctuary.
A place where every child, no matter their journey, can find belonging, hope, and a future.