EVERY child really does matter at St Michael's CE Primary School.

The school in Great Lever has become the second in Bolton to be awarded School of Sanctuary Status.

The accreditation recognises the school's commitment to being a safe and welcoming play for all, especially those seeking sanctuary.

This includes people who have had to flee their homeland in fear of their lives, or who have troubles at home or are just looking for a safe place.

As a School of Sanctuary, St Michael’s CE has demonstrated a commitment help its pupils, staff and the wider community understand what it means to be seeking sanctuary and extend a welcome to everyone as equal and valued.

And children at the school have been learning about the importance of being kind, welcoming and supportive to anyone seeking refuge or asylum.

The school's new status was celebrated in a special assembly with guests including Frankie Hahlo and Pamela Spurling from the City of Sanctuary movement.

Working towards to the award has enabled staff and pupils to gain a better understanding of identity, diversity, equality and community.

“We are proud to be a place of safety and inclusion for all,” said Mrs V Workman RE curriculum leader at the school, “Our pupils and staff have worked hard to implement and consistently demonstrate these values throughout the whole school – which are very much a part of our school ethos and culture.”

St Gregory’s RC Primary School became the first School of Sanctuary in Bolton for the work it does to ensure all pupils are made to feel safe — and to raise awareness of the plight of asylum seekers and refugees.

The town of Bolton is part of the City of Sanctuary movement, which is committed to building a culture of hospitality and welcome, especially for refugees seeking sanctuary from war and persecution.

For many years Bolton has offered a home to people whose lives were in danger in their own countries.

It has the support of a number of organisations in Bolton.