At St Mary’s, our Family Groups are a special part of school life and play an important role in creating the warm, nurturing and inclusive community that we are so proud of. As a one-form entry school, we are able to develop a true family feel across the whole school, where children and staff know one another well and relationships are built over time. Rooted in our vision, Family Groups help every child feel known, valued and connected within our school family.

Each Family Group is made up of one child from every year group across the school – from Reception through to Year 6. Every group is led by a Year 6 pupil, who acts as a role model, guide and mentor for the younger children within their family.

Our Family Groups begin building relationships from the very start of school life. When our new Reception children join St Mary’s, their Year 6 family member spends time with them in the Reception classroom, playing alongside them, supporting them and helping them to feel safe, confident and welcomed into the St Mary’s community. These early relationships help to create a gentle and caring transition into school life.

Throughout the academic year, Family Groups spend time together during a range of shared activities and experiences. These opportunities allow children across all year groups to build friendships, learn from one another and strengthen the sense of unity across the school.

Family Groups are an important part of our relational ethos. They help ensure that every child is seen, heard and valued as an individual within our school community. Younger children know they have older pupils they can turn to for help, encouragement or reassurance, while older pupils develop leadership, empathy and responsibility through caring for and supporting others.

Through Family Groups, children experience what it truly means to belong to a school family - one where everyone matters, everyone is supported and everyone flourishes together.