Parent/Carer Handbook - Flipbook - Page 8
Robert May’s School
Ethos and Values
What is Character Education?
Character is more than just a subject—it has a core focus of developing positive
personal strengths. It has a place in all walks of life including at home, in the wider
school community and in lessons. At Robert May’s, we are continually developing
staff and student character in order to teach our students the importance of
being ethically and morally correct, enabling growth in these areas so they can
become more reflective and model how to be an upstander in our community.
Through lessons, discussions and activities, students learn how to apply these values
in real-life situations, both in and outside the classroom. Character education helps
students develop a strong moral compass, teaching them how to make positive choices
and treat others with kindness and respect. By partnering with parents, we aim to
create a supportive environment that nurtures personal growth and helps our students
become good citizens and empathetic individuals.
Why is Character Education important?
Character education is a crucial component of a well-rounded education as it
helps students develop the essential skills and values they will need to navigate the
complexities of life. At its core, character education focuses on instilling core ethical
principles like honesty, resilience, patience and compassion within young minds. By
explicitly teaching and modelling these virtues, we can empower our students to make
thoughtful, principled decisions both in the classroom and beyond. Beyond just academic
knowledge, character education prepares students to be productive, engaged citizens.
Activities and lessons centred on character development encourage students to consider
the needs and perspectives of others, resolve conflicts through peaceful dialogue and
take accountability for their actions. This cultivation of social-emotional intelligence
equips our students with the interpersonal competencies required to collaborate
effectively, show compassion and become positive forces within their communities.
Lived well, our values will ensure that we are able to:
• Act as a pillar for the community we serve and foster aspiration within it
• Recognise and develop the talents of all the young people as unique individuals
within a diverse community
• Foster a culture of effort to go beyond oneself
• Educate towards a kinder and more sustainable future
“Children are the living messages we send to a time
we will not see.” - Neil Postman
Respect - Motivate - Support
