Pupils at Gayton’s primary school have celebrated St Matthew’s Day with a special assembly marking the school’s new name, St Matthew’s CofE Primary Academy. During the assembly, children learned about St Matthew the Apostle, explored the values behind the school’s new identity and reflected on what it means to be a good neighbour.
The celebration provided a fitting opportunity to introduce the new name. Following the merger of the former Gayton and Middleton schools in 2022, leaders wanted a name that reflected the school’s Christian foundation, shared vision and aspirations for the future.
At the heart of the assembly was a question asked by Jesus: “Who is my neighbour?” Through the story of the Good Samaritan, pupils considered how they can show kindness, compassion and respect to others, whether in school or in the wider community. Those themes sit at the centre of the school’s vision and values.
St Matthew was one of Jesus’s twelve apostles and is traditionally recognised as the author of the Gospel of Matthew. Before following Jesus, he worked as a tax collector. His story is a reminder that everyone has value and that every person has the potential to make a positive difference. For the school, his example reflects a commitment to ensuring every child feels known, valued and encouraged to flourish.
The school’s vision is rooted in the words of Matthew 7:12: “In everything, treat others the same way you want them to treat you.” Pupils are encouraged to be Ready, Respectful and Safe, while the school’s Christian values of justice, friendship, thankfulness and perseverance help guide daily life.
The Revd Josh Whitnall said:
“Today is a wonderful day in the life of our school here in Gayton. As we celebrate the Festival of St Matthew, we also begin a new chapter as St Matthew’s CofE Primary Academy.
“St Matthew’s story reminds us that Jesus sees the potential in everyone and calls each of us to play our part. My prayer for this new season is that every child will feel known, valued and encouraged so that they can flourish within our community.”
While the school has a new name, it remains a familiar and valued part of village life. Generations of local children have attended the school and the new name builds on those strong foundations while expressing the values that continue to shape its future.
As part of the Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust (DNEAT), the school is committed to giving children a wide range of experiences and opportunities, helping them develop the confidence, character and skills they will need in later life.
For St Matthew’s CofE Primary Academy, the new name is more than a change of identity. It is a reflection of the values that underpin the school community and its ambition to help every child thrive, while encouraging them to care for others and make a positive contribution to the world around them.