The wording 'Enter by the narrow gate', is a direct quote from Jesus (Matthew 7:13) using the metaphor to describe two different paths in life. For children, choosing the 'narrow path' is deciding to do the right thing rather than sometimes follow others in making the wrong choice. 

Our Christian values are at the core of everything we do. They underpin our teaching and learning, and provide an environment which prepares our pupils as confident, happy citizens.

The theological rooting of our values and vision is drawn from the story of the Good Samaritan.

Cheapside Values and the Story of the Good Samaritan

The story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37) is one of Jesus’ most well-known parables. It's rich with moral and spiritual lessons, and the school values —transformation, creation, hope, compassion, inspiration, and community—are all represented in various ways throughout the story.

1. Compassion

This is the central value of the parable.

The Samaritan, moved with compassion, stops to help a wounded man left to die on the roadside.

Unlike the priest and the Levite who pass by, the Samaritan chooses empathy over indifference, showing that true neighbourly love requires feeling another's pain and acting on it.

2. Transformation

Transformation occurs both in the actions and the moral message of the story:

The Samaritan defies social and religious boundaries. Jews and Samaritans were enemies, but he transforms the expected narrative by becoming the hero.

Jesus also uses this parable to transform the definition of “neighbour” from a tribal or national identity to one based on love and mercy. The story transforms how people see others—challenging prejudice and expanding moral responsibility.

3. Creation

Creation here refers to the creation of new relationships, new understanding, and new ways of living. The Samaritan creates a bond with the injured man through selfless care.

The parable itself helps listeners create a new vision of justice, mercy, and inclusivity.

4. Hope

The injured man, left for dead, represents a state of despair but the Samaritan’s actions restore hope—not just physical recovery but a renewed belief in human kindness.

The parable tells us that no one is beyond the reach of care, and there’s hope even when society turns away.

5. Inspiration

Jesus uses the parable to inspire his listeners to act differently. He ends by saying: “Go and do likewise.” The Samaritan becomes a model of mercy—someone who challenges norms and inspires radical love.

6. Community

Though the story shows people who ignore a man in need, the Samaritan’s actions rebuild community. He doesn’t just bandage wounds; he brings the man to an inn, pays for his care, and promises to return.

This is a picture of interconnectedness—where one person’s suffering becomes the concern of another, regardless of social divisions.

Aims, Vision & Ethos

Our Aim is for everyone to ‘Achieve their best in thought, in word, in deed’.

We focus on a variety of values (blue/grey words on the cross below when looking at a different theme every half term (green words on the cross).