Personal and Character Development
Inspiring children to live life in all its fullness
At this school, we recognise the importance of developing the whole child. Only through a rounded education experience can children flourish, shine and discover their hidden talents and strengths. Contributing to personal and character development is a lifelong journey, marked by a myriad of experiences that shape who we are and who we aspire to become. These experiences come in various forms, from triumphs to challenges, from moments of joy to instances of adversity. Each encounter leaves an indelible mark on our character, fostering growth, resilience, and self-awareness.
One significant aspect of personal and character development lies in embracing new opportunities and stepping out of one's comfort zone. Whether it's taking up a new hobby, pursuing further education, or venturing into unfamiliar territory, every leap into the unknown presents a chance for learning and self-discovery.
Courageous Advocacy
We recognise through our theologically rooted Christian vision that collectively and through fellowship we are beacon of hope in a world often overshadowed by darkness. Our school community radiates warmth and light, offering solace to the weary and strength to the downtrodden. In times of turmoil and strife, it is the loving heart that whispers words of comfort, gently guiding others towards healing and reconciliation.
Our goal is to nurture the child to become a conscientious member of society, positively impacting the world through acts of kindness, respect, hope, ambition, etiquette, empathy, compassion, sound decision-making, advocacy against injustice, and spiritual enlightenment. This includes the ability to forgive both others and themselves and build bridges to seek a more peaceful harmonious world.
Social Development
This aspect of the curriculum enables children to develop and use a range of social skills. It also allows children to appreciate diverse viewpoints, respect the views and beliefs of others. participate, volunteer and cooperate and resolve conflict.
Social skills are learnt and taught. This means children learn social skills in context from the people around them and are taught where there are gaps in their skills or understanding. Adults in the school have a crucial role in modelling the social skills we wish our children to acquire.
Spiritual Development
Spiritual Development involves providing children with the opportunity to appreciate the non-materialistic aspects of human nature, exploring beliefs and values, experiencing feelings including awe and wonder; learning about oneself, others and the surrounding world; developing imagination and creativity and reflecting on experiences. This can be achieved through the curriculum, between lessons and specific activities. Spiritual awareness is also about appreciating nature and recognising the importance of caring for our environment for the benefit of others.
Spirituality in a Church of England context
Spiritual development is not a separate standalone issue for church schools. It is intrinsic in everything that we do and everywhere within the school. Spirituality enables our children to be happy, flourish, succeed and live life to its fullest. It enables humankind to be fascinated, creative, reflective and consider the bigger questions in life that make us curious and grow inside.
Spirituality encourages the development of the whole person; mentally, emotionally, and morally. It fosters a sense of interconnectedness and purpose, promoting children's overall well-being. It also addresses existential questions about purpose and meaning in life and provides space for children to explore these questions contributing to their sense of fulfilment and direction, and connection with something beyond themselves. For those with faith this can mean a connection and relationship with God.
Cultural Development
This aspect of the curriculum enables children to explore, respect and appreciate cultural influences and diversity. It allows children the explore fundamental British values in relation to the role of democracy, individual liberty, the rule of law and respect and tolerance. It is also about participating in cultural opportunities so that they gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of people as well developing positive attitudes towards difference. Carefully chosen images used in lessons and Assembly time also contribute to children's understanding and appreciation of diversity.
Religious Education also provides an opportunity for children to learn about the diversity of faiths around the world and within our own country with a focus on similarities. Likewise, children learn about influential figures from around the world who have shaped the world and have made a positive influence on society.
Children learn about democracy and parliamentary system through the School Council and the RSHE curriculum. Each Class votes for a representative who carries forward the view of the class to seek change in a democratic way that is for the good of the whole rather than the individual.