St John’s Meads is committed to its task of providing a high quality and formative education that will prepare students for the next stages of their lives. The school is equally committed to its vision that, as a community, St John’s Meads may be a light in the darkness; In tenebris lux. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it”. (John 1:5)

The Bible teaches that the primary characteristic of God is love (1 John 4:8), expressed ultimately through the sacrifice of Christ for us (John 3:16). In our school, understanding the practical nature of love means we seek to create an atmosphere of respect, kindness, patience, discipline, courtesy, generosity and care towards each other. “Do to others as you would have them do to you” (Luke 6:31). Our hope is that, what children learn and practise now at St John’s Meads, is carried into their future lives. “I can do all things through Christ who give me strength.” (Philippians 4:13).

Education is a vital part of enabling students to enter, with confidence, a very competitive world. What we are exists in potential, but needs to be revealed through the experience of learning. Learning unlocks potential and plays an important part in enabling us to know a fuller and richer experience of life. “Pay attention to what you are taught, and you will be successful; trust in the Lord and you will be happy”. (Proverbs 16:20). Learning, being honest and responsible, and doing the right thing is not always easy. Children are reminded of this as they grow to become a ‘light in the darkness’. “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).

The Bible tells us that human beings are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27) and that they are infinitely loved and valued (John 3:16). Each child is, therefore, treated with respect; is of great value, and known to be in possession of great potential. Reaching their potential is for the personal fulfilment of each student and the good of society, so the school has a responsibility to inspire and support children to work hard and learn through life’s difficulties so they can live a full and fruitful life. “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10b).

As bearers of God’s image, children are capable of flourishing according to their own blend of innate talents and abilities. “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). Within each child is the capacity to reach their God-given potential according to their unique combination of abilities. Through working hard and becoming independent; with the support and encouragement of staff and other students as we work as a team; they can develop a realistic vision for their future and find their place in this world, knowing that they are fitted to the responsibilities they have taken on. (1 Peter 4:10).

The Bible is regularly referenced within school worship to inform the way we relate to our world, so that we can respond with knowledge and responsibility to issues and events. (Hebrews 4:12). We aim for prayer to be central to the life of the school and to be a source of strength for our community. “Continue in prayer, being watchful and thankful”. (Colossians 4:2)

Pastoral care is given with an acknowledgement of our own human frailty in the face of life’s difficulties, and provides the support that enables students to feel connected to others through bonds of care in our college community. “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others”. (Philippians 2:4)

St John’s Meads will be a light in the darkness. We aim for all members of our community to live life to the full, worshipping and working together so that everyone may flourish, and in doing so, achieve their God-given potential. This will be achieved with love; through promoting independence; by being generous, honest and by working with others to overcome darkness.