The Schools of Sanctuary network is a broad and welcoming community of schools, Local Leads and community groups across the UK with a shared vision: that our schools should be places of safety, belonging and kindness for all, especially those seeking safety.

Become a member

Any school, nursery or Sixth Form can join our network and become a member – joining an inspiring and supportive network of schools across the UK committed to building kinder, safer schools and communities.

Our network of over 1000 schools are leading the way in challenging misinformation, building values-led school communities and ensuring every child, including those seeking safety are able to thrive.

Be part of this movement and join the network today.

Apply for the School of Sanctuary Award

Network members in areas where we have a licensed local partner and that want to go the extra mile can work towards achieving the School of Sanctuary Award.

This supportive and rigorous process helps schools reflect on current practice and activities, celebrate strengths and identify areas to improve whilst working meaningfully with learners, parent/carers and local community members and organisations to amplify shared efforts. Awarded Schools of Sanctuary are schools that go above and beyond to ensure their practices and activities are effectively and meaningfully supporting refugee and asylum-seeking children and fostering cultures of kindness and solidarity.

Schools should take at least a whole year to work towards application. The first step is to sign the supporting organisation pledge and join as a network member. If present, you will then be connected to your Local Lead to move forward on this journey. If a Local Lead is not currently active in your local area, by joining the network you will be the very first to know if/when they are recruited in your area.

See our Local Lead Network.