"The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is an important, legally binding agreement signed by 196 countries (as of 12 July 2022) which outlines the fundamental rights of every child, regardless of their race, religion or abilities. 

The Convention has 54 articles that cover all aspects of a child’s life and set out the civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights. The convention is universal—these rights apply to every child and the convention entitles every child to claim them. It also explains how adults and governments must work together to make sure all children can enjoy all their rights.
Every child has rights, without discrimination of any kind against the child, parent, or legal guardian (Article 2).

The Convention is also the most widely ratified human rights treaty in the world. All UN member states except for the United States have ratified the Convention. The Convention came into force in the UK in 1992.” (UNICEF, 2025)

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At The Willows School we recognise, respect and uphold the Rights of the Child as laid out in the UNCRC. We understand that knowing, understanding and claiming their rights empowers children to build a sense of belonging and autonomy in the wider world. By placing the Rights of the Child at the heart of our school policies and procedures, we create a safe, supportive and inspirational environment that allows our pupils to thrive. This whole-school approach to embedding the Rights of the Child supports our vision and values to create a Kind, Respectful, Hard-Working and Safe ethos. 
 

Read a summary of the UN Convention

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Read the full UN Convention