SIAMS
What is SIAMS?
SIAMS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools) is the inspection framework used to evaluate Church of England and Methodist schools.
SIAMS explores what it means for a school to be a Church school and how its Christian vision, values and ethos are reflected in everyday school life. It considers how the school’s Christian foundation influences the experiences and development of its pupils, the way people treat one another, the curriculum, collective worship, Religious Education and the school’s wider community.
For St Chad’s, our Christian vision is central to who we are. It shapes our relationships, our approach to inclusion and wellbeing, the opportunities we provide for spiritual development and the way we support every child to flourish.
St Chad's as a Church school
St Chad’s is a Church of England Nursery and Infant School, founded in 1889. We are proud to be part of the Derby Diocesan Academy Trust (DDAT) and to have a long-standing and valued partnership with the Diocese of Derby.
Our Christian vision is rooted in the Greatest Commandment:
LOVE God LOVE Neighbour LOVE Self (Matthew 22:36)
“Love God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and love your neighbour as yourself”.
Our vision shapes the culture and character of our school. It influences the way we build relationships, care for one another, support children to understand themselves and others, and create an environment where everyone can belong and flourish.
We are a diverse and inclusive school. While our vision is distinctly Christian, we welcome and value children and families of all faiths and cultures. We believe that our diversity enriches our school community and provides opportunities for children to develop respect, understanding and curiosity about the beliefs and experiences of others.
Our Christian vision in action
Our vision is not simply a statement; it is something we seek to live out every day.
Our Christian values of love, friendship, compassion and respect underpin our relationships and expectations across school. Through these values, we encourage children to care for others, recognise the value and uniqueness of every person and understand that they have a responsibility to contribute positively to their community.
Our 'LOVE Promise' gives children a simple, memorable way of putting our vision into practice:
· Look after our school and each other
· Only ever do our best
· Value everyone and remember our manners
· Enjoy our learning
Our Christian vision is reflected across school life, including:
- the relationships and sense of belonging within our school community;
- our approach to inclusion, wellbeing and pastoral support;
- opportunities for children's spiritual development;
- Collective Worship and times for reflection;
- Religious Education and learning about Christianity and other faiths and worldviews;
- our relationships with the local church and Diocese; and
- opportunities for children to show care, responsibility and service to others.
Our Church partnerships
Our partnership with the Diocese of Derby and our links with the local church are an important part of our life as a Church school.
We have strong links with St Augustine’s Church, which is a valued part of our wider school community. Reverend Andy Ward contributes to school life and support opportunities for children to encounter Christian worship, teaching and service in meaningful and age-appropriate ways.
Our partnership with the Diocese, DDAT and local church community provides valuable support as we continue to develop our distinctive Christian character.
A copy of our latest SIAMS inspection report can be viewed below.