This Month's Blog has been written by Sue Jackson.

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Life at Thurnham Church of England Infant School

On May 7th 2026 Thurnham was inspected in accordance with the Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools [SIAMS]. We have not been inspected for more than eight years, our last one being in March 2018. In true Anglican fashion, it has taken a long time to catch up after the pause necessary during COVID. It is true to say that the timing was right for us as with a relatively new Head Teacher with much to review.

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This academic year has seen work to develop anew our vision and values for the school. This has been carried out slowly and thoughtfully, with much consultation with all stakeholders as it is important for everyone to have ownership.

 

Our newly developed vision is “Nurtured we Thrive’ and we draw inspiration from the parable of the Mustard Seed from Matthew 13, illustrating the potential we all have to thrive and develop.

Our school values are:

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Compassion – love in action

Responsibility – doing the things we are supposed to do

Justice – fairness

Forgiveness – letting go of negative feelings for example anger or blame.

 

Our Vision:

At Thurnham Church of England Infant School we draw inspiration from the parable of the mustard seed; a tiny seed that grows into a mighty tree, illustrating the potential within us all to thrive. We believe that by nurturing this power we can create a caring Christian community. By acting with compassion and forgiveness, we empower each of us to set positive example to others. We value everyone’s voice and their responsibility to use it.  It was very rewarding to have our hard work recognised by SIAMS.

 

“Thurnham Church of England Infant School has much to celebrate. Leaders are united in their drive to ensure everyone is nurtured. Staff talk openly about being proud to work here. Following the example of school leaders, they serve with humility’

 

‘Adults seek to nurture one another and the pupils in every exchange. Governors play an active role in the life of this Church School.’

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‘The school is working closely with the new vicar to exploit opportunities to unite the community’

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As I leave the Governing Board after 19 years and eight as Chair this feels like a very fitting end. It has always been a privilege and a pleasure to serve as a member of the board even though at times it has been challenging.