Our Values: Ambition, Compassion and Resilience
Our Vision: Let Your Light Shine - Matthew 5:16
Christian Distinctiveness
The History of St Barnabas
St Barnabas Primary School in Warmley, Bristol, has a rich history dating back to its founding on Church Ave. On 19th January 1864 Mr Goldney of Chippenham conveyed land to the minister and church wardens of St Barnabas for the provision of a school. The school was opened on 12th sept 1864 by Rev JH Howard and the head was Miss E Greenville. There were 65 children on roll. Charges for attendance were levied at the rate of 3d a week.
In 1972 the school relocated to Poplar Closes. The school has a long tradition of welcoming children from Christian families and from other faiths, offering a high standard of education within a caring and secure environment.
The school’s history is intertwined with the local community, and it has played a significant role in shaping the educational landscape of Warmley. It has also been a place of historical significance, with events such as the welcoming of royal visitors like Prince Charles in 1985
Why Choose a Church of England School?
Nurturing Every Child to Flourish.
Church of England schools have been serving their local communities for over 200 years. While they have a Christian foundation, they warmly welcome children and families of all faiths and none.
The purpose of a Church of England school is simple: to provide an excellent education while helping every child grow academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually. We believe that every child is unique, valued and created with dignity and purpose.
Our aim is for every pupil to flourish, becoming confident learners, kind friends and responsible citizens who are well prepared for the future.
What Makes a Church of England School Different?
The difference is often not in what you see, but in how children experience school each day.
A Strong Sense of Community
Church schools place great importance on relationships. Children are encouraged to care for one another, celebrate each other’s successes and support those who need help. Families are seen as partners in their children’s education, creating a welcoming and inclusive community.
Christian Values in Daily Life
Values such as resilience, ambition and compassion are woven into everyday school life. These values are not simply displayed on classroom walls—they are lived through behaviour, decision-making and relationships.
Children learn that everyone deserves respect and that differences should be celebrated.
Collective Worship
A daily act of collective worship is a distinctive feature of Church of England schools. This provides time to reflect, celebrate achievements, think about important questions and explore Christian beliefs and values.
Collective worship is inclusive and invitational. Children are encouraged to reflect and participate in ways that are comfortable for them, regardless of their own beliefs.
Spiritual Development
Alongside academic learning, children are encouraged to wonder, ask questions and reflect on life’s big ideas.
This may happen through:
- moments of quiet reflection
- exploring nature
- music and art
- discussions about fairness, justice and hope
- celebrating different cultures and faiths
Spiritual development is about helping children understand themselves, others and the world around them.
Links with the St Barnabas Church
Pupils and staff visit the church six times a year for festivals such as Harvest, Christmas and Easter, take part in community events and welcome Rev Ness into school to host Collective Worship and support learning.
These links help children understand the history and traditions of their local community.
Academic Excellence
Church of England schools follow the same National Curriculum as other state schools and are inspected to the same high standards.
Alongside academic achievement, equal importance is given to developing character, confidence and resilience so that children leave school ready for the next stage of their education and life.
Welcoming Families of All Faiths and None
A Church of England school is a place where everyone belongs
Children from Christian families, other faith communities and families with no religious faith learn together in an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding.
No child is expected to hold Christian beliefs. Instead, pupils are encouraged to ask questions, think critically and develop their own understanding of the world while learning about Christianity and other world religions.
What Would You Notice if You Visited?
Visitors often comment on the atmosphere of a Church school. You might notice:
- A calm, welcoming and caring environment.
- Children treating one another with kindness and respect.
- Friendly relationships between staff, pupils and families.
- Christian values displayed and discussed throughout the school.
- Opportunities for reflection, prayer or quiet thinking.
- Strong links with the local community and church.
- A focus on helping every child flourish, not just academically but as a whole person.
- A Place to Flourish
At the heart of every Church of England school is a simple belief: every child matters.
By combining high-quality education with Christian values, compassion and a commitment to serving the whole community, Church of England schools aim to help every child discover their gifts, develop confidence and flourish throughout their lives.
