Oasis Academy Harpur Mount spotlit as a School of Sanctuary

Oasis Academy Harpur Mount in Harpurhey, Manchester has been awarded School of Sanctuary accreditation, recognising its outstanding commitment to ensuring every child and family feels welcomed, included, supported and valued. 

The prestigious award celebrates schools that go above and beyond to create safe, nurturing and compassionate environments where everyone can belong and flourish. The recognition reflects the primary academy’s commitment to inclusion, belonging and community, values that sit at the heart of the Oasis ethos. Oasis is committed to inclusion, equality, healthy relationships, hope and perseverance, creating environments where everyone is welcomed and empowered to thrive.  

Oasis Academy Harpur Mount has earned praise from parents, carers and the wider community for the supportive culture it has built for pupils and families. The academy staff are passionate about creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child feels safe, welcomed and able to achieve their full potential.  

As a recognised Anna Freud Mentally Healthy School, the academy takes a trauma-informed approach and places relationships at the centre of school life, ensuring every child develops a strong sense of belonging. 

The School of Sanctuary accreditation process involved a detailed application supported by extensive evidence, followed by an evaluation visit which included panellists with lived experience of seeking sanctuary. The panel praised the academy’s inclusive curriculum, strong pastoral support and commitment to meeting the needs of all children and families. 

Most notably, the panel were deeply impressed by the pupils themselves, stating that children spoke with confidence, empathy and understanding about what it means to be a School of Sanctuary. The children explained the importance of welcoming others, celebrating diversity and standing together against discrimination. 

During their feedback, the panel said: 

“The evaluation panel was deeply impressed by the school’s outstanding commitment to creating a genuine sense of welcome and belonging for every member of its community. 

The children in the focus group were remarkable. They demonstrated a strong understanding of what it means to seek sanctuary, as well as wider issues such as racism, English as an Additional Language (EAL) peer support, allyship and solidarity. Their maturity, empathy and insight were a credit to the school.” 

Myron, one of the pupil leaders who represented the academy during the assessment, said: 

“I am infinitely privileged to be a pupil at Oasis Academy Harpur Mount, and I am very proud that we have now rightfully been awarded School of Sanctuary status. At our school, we welcome everyone with open arms.” 

The panel also recognised the exceptional leadership of Amber Leigh, Pastoral Lead and School of Sanctuary Coordinator, describing her commitment to supporting vulnerable children and families as “outstanding”. 

Amber Leigh, Pastoral Lead at Oasis Academy Harpur Mount and School of Sanctuary Coordinator, said: 

“We are incredibly proud to receive this award, which reflects the warmth, kindness and sense of belonging that are at the heart of our school. Our children show compassion, respect and acceptance every day, creating an environment where everyone feels safe, supported and celebrated. 

“This recognition is a testament to the wonderful spirit of our pupils, staff and families, and our shared commitment to ensuring that everyone feels welcomed, valued and that they truly belong.” 

Sally Herbert, Principal of Oasis Academy Harpur Mount, said: 

“We are incredibly proud of becoming a School of Sanctuary. This undoubtedly reflects our academy’s values of nurture and inclusion and shows exactly how our students and staff continue to thrive together.” 

This latest achievement is another example of how Oasis Academy Harpur Mount is helping children develop confidence, compassion and leadership while creating a school community where everyone belongs.