What is a courageous advocate?

A courageous advocate is someone who champions a cause which is special and meaningful to them.

At Woodham Walter Church of England Primary we have a strong emphasis on encouraging our pupils to become courageous advocates, not just locally, but nationally and globally.

At some point in life, we will all face challenges and need support to help us overcome these barriers. We teach our children that it is important to help others when we can, no matter who they are, where they come from or what challenges they may face. We teach this through the teachings of the bible and learning about other courageous advocates. Our Christian values and carefully planned opportunities in our curriculum ensure that the children regularly discuss and debate the big issues, to challenge injustice and to engage in activities that can bring about change are always present.

 

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

Proverbs 31:8-9 

It is important for our children to appreciate their role as part of a community; to take responsibility; to be able to look after themselves and to foster an understanding of their importance, impact and influence in the world. 

We support a range of charities in our local area, nationally and globally. The school council work with staff, governors, parents, pupils and St. Michael’s Church to identify worthy causes to support.

In recent years we have carried out a range of different fund-raising to support many good causes, some of which include:

• our local food bank;
• Sports Relief;
• Comic Relief;
• Children in Need;
• Macmillan;
• The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

Our children have an excellent grasp on the meaning of belonging to a local and global community and the sense of responsibility that comes with belonging. Thereby developing their ability to empathise and make a small sacrifice to benefit others. Together we consider the beauty and fragility of our environment, the actions we take, and the impact these actions may have on the well-being of everyone. Our school community and curriculum actively embraces a responsibility for the world in which we live. We are diligent to show our connection with, and care for, the world in which we all live and care for the people who live in it:

• Links with the local care home and Church (Christmas carols)
• Charities of significance to our children;
• School Council who seek the views of pupils as to which causes we want to support;
• Strong PTA with community events such as Christmas and Summer Fayres, and discos;

Examples of courageous advocacy in action by pupils at Woodham Walter C of E Primary include: 

• A group of children who recently volunteered to plant hedges around the local farmland. This initiative is a perfect example of how young people can make a real difference in their communities. By planting these hedges, our pupils are helping to support biodiversity, providing shelter and food for a variety of animals, insects, and birds. It’s a wonderful opportunity for them to learn about the importance of ecosystems, the role of native plants, and the impact we can have on the environment.

  Driven by our vision, the children are learning that even small actions—like planting seeds and nurturing growth—can have far-reaching benefits. This project is not just about creating green spaces; it’s about instilling a sense of responsibility and hope for the future. Our pupils are becoming courageous advocates for the planet, one hedge at a time, and we are excited to see the positive impact they will continue to have in the world around them.

• A number of children have shown remarkable courage and compassion through their involvement with The Prince's Trust and cancer charities, growing their hair not only to raise money for cancer research but also to donate it to be made into wigs for children undergoing cancer treatment.

  This selfless act of kindness speaks volumes about the empathy and advocacy our students are developing. By offering their hair, they are providing a tangible and deeply meaningful gift to children who have lost their hair as a result of treatment, helping to restore a sense of normality and confidence during a difficult time. Their commitment to this cause goes beyond fundraising—it’s about offering a personal, heartfelt contribution that directly impacts those in need.