Our vision and 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.

Underlying the work in which we are involved as educators, are fundamental values and principles to which we are committed.

• We believe that all children have the right to the best possible education, irrespective of gender, race or religion.
• We believe that education is concerned with the development of the whole person ~ academically, physically, socially, culturally, morally and spiritually.
• We believe that the educational process is a partnership involving, not only the teacher and the child, but also parents and the wider institutions of society.

The School Ethos

At Ballymena Primary School we are committed to:-

• The promotion of Christian values as guiding principles for life and living.
• Valuing the sanctity of human life and the uniqueness of each individual member of the school community.
• Developing an ethos where each member of the school community is sensitive to the personal and pastoral needs of others.
• Equal opportunities for all.
• The development of tolerance, respect and acceptance of the diversity of human life.
• The provision of a safe, secure, happy and stimulating learning environment.
• Caring for the natural and material environment.

Children

In relation to themselves, to others and to the world around them, we will encourage children to:-

• Develop as well rounded individuals, socially, culturally, morally, spiritually, emotionally, physically and academically.
• Maximise their full potential and achieve success.
• Prepare for life-long learning and their future roles in society.
• Develop self-confidence and self-esteem.
• Grow in self-discipline, personal responsibility and independence.
• Develop a healthy lifestyle.
• Be creative and imaginative and to solve problems.
• Develop a caring and charitable attitude compatible with the school's Christian ethos.
• Respect others, irrespective of race, colour, religion, class, gender or ability.
• Build positive relationships.
• Work hard, play well and enjoy learning.
• Respect the environment and understand the need for conservation and sustainability.

Curriculum, Teaching & Staff

In order to maintain the best possible learning environment, the school will:-

• Deliver a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum matched to the needs of the children and the requirements of the Northern Ireland Curriculum.
• Employ enlightened, innovative and appropriately adapted teaching styles compatible with different learning dispositions.
• Set new targets for school development and improvement.
• Effectively monitor and evaluate information on pupil achievement to determine the extent to which the school is reaching its goals.
• Encourage all staff to make full use of available opportunities for personal and professional development.
• Promote a sense of professional community and collegiality.
• Encourage teachers to become reflective, self-evaluating practitioners.
• Employ new technologies as tools to enhance teaching and learning.

The School in the Community

In recognising the role of the school within the Ballymena community and beyond, we will endeavour to:-

• Foster effective communication between the home and the school.
• Encourage parents as partners in the teaching/learning process.
• Promote liaison between children, staff, parents, governors, EA-NE, CCEA, DENI and other significant institutions in society.
• Develop partnerships with other schools in Northern Ireland and internationally.
• Maximise learning opportunities in the immediate environment of the school and beyond.