Our Christian Vision
Who We Are
The Federation of St. Alphege Schools comprises two historic Church of England institutions: St. Alphege Infant and Nursery Voluntary Aided School and St. Alphege Junior Voluntary Aided School. Nestled in the heart of Solihull, both schools are closely connected to St. Alphege Church, a historic landmark for over 800 years. The Infant and Nursery School sits in the shadow of the church, while the Junior School is a short walk through one of Solihull’s scenic parks. The Federation, with an Executive Headteacher and shared Governing Body, is committed to serving the community through excellence in education and Christian values.
Our patron saint, Alphege, Archbishop of Canterbury in 1006, inspires our focus on reconciliation and social justice. He sacrificed his life rather than allow the poor of England to pay for his ransom when captured by Danish forces. This legacy shapes our mission of service and care for others.
Situated in the south of the Diocese of Birmingham, Solihull is a diverse town that embraces inclusivity. Though traditionally affluent, a number of our students come from under-served communities, and we seek to provide sanctuary, security, and steadiness to all students, no matter their background.
With deep partnerships across the Diocese, Parish Church and Local Authority, our Federation aims for continuous improvement. Following the 2023 Ofsted inspection, a new leadership team is boldly leading the schools into a season of restoration and renewal. Together, we are reclaiming our status as beacons of excellence, building a community where every child, family, and staff member is embraced, loved, and equipped to flourish.
What We Believe
At the heart of our vision is love—our Christian foundation is rooted in biblical teachings, and it shapes every aspect of school life. We aim to create a loving community, nurture a passion for learning, and encourage a spirit of service, all underpinned by the values of our faith.
Our Vision: Let Your Love Show
Loving Community
"My command is this: Love one another as I have loved you."(John 15:12)
We foster an inclusive and welcoming environment where every child and adult is embraced as a unique creation of God. There are no outsiders in our community—love is our foundation.
Loving Learning
"Faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love." (1 Corinthians 13:13)
We inspire a passion for learning that is rooted in faith. Every child is encouraged to discover and express their gifts, becoming the amazing people God intends them to be.
Loving Service
"Do everything in love." (1 Corinthians 16:14)
Following Christ’s example, we serve others with humility and love. We equip students and adults alike to take responsibility for shaping a more just and loving world.
Our Purpose
The way of the Federation is love—an inclusive community where no one is left behind. Our purpose is the full flourishing of everyone: spiritually, intellectually, morally, socially, and culturally. We believe that God’s love is for all, and we are committed to helping every child and adult in our schools live, love, and serve as world shapers, challenging injustices and making the world reflect God’s creative and intentional plan.
Our Theological Foundations
Our vision aligns with the Church of England’s Vision for Education: Deeply Christian, Serving the Common Good. Theologically, our Christian vision is rooted in love, creation, and the nature of the Trinity.
Created in God’s Image
"So God created human beings, making them to be like himself." (Genesis 1:27)
Every person is uniquely and wonderfully made. Our vision is for everyone to be loved, valued, and celebrated for who they are. We nurture each child’s gifts so that they can flourish and serve others, living the life God intended for them.
God is Love
"God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them." (John 4:16)
At the heart of everything we do is the belief that God is love. We are called to reflect this love in our relationships, learning, and service.
Flourishing Together
We believe in the diversity of gifts within our community. We celebrate difference, knowing that it brings strength and richness. Like the Trinity, we aim to live in loving relationships, working together in unity for the common good.
How We Live Our Vision
The story of the Bible teaches us that love is complex, but it is God’s way. As a school community, we look to the life of Jesus as our example of love in action. In loving community, loving learning, and loving service, we strive to share this love with everyone we encounter.
Love is patient, kind, and enduring. It speaks up for those in need, celebrates truth, and never gives up. Our schools will always be places where love is expressed in everything we do—whether in the classroom, on the playground, or in our wider community.
Inspired by St. Alphege
The life of our patron saint, St. Alphege, is an enduring example of courage, sacrifice, and justice. Through his commitment to peace and service, we find inspiration for our own lives.
Loving Learning
St. Alphege’s knowledge of Danish culture enabled him to serve as an ambassador for peace, crossing boundaries to foster understanding. We, too, seek to cross boundaries in our learning, embracing diversity and striving for wisdom.
Loving Community
As a leader of faith communities, St. Alphege served as a shepherd, guiding and protecting those in his care. We follow his example by creating a safe, supportive environment where everyone is valued and included.
Loving Service
St Alphege’s ultimate sacrifice reminds us that true love serves others, even at great personal cost. We are called to serve with humility, putting others’ needs before our own and working for the greater good.
