Character and Values​

An individual’s time spent in secondary school is key shaping their development into adulthood; their morals, their understanding of the world around them, their ambitions and preparation for the world of work. During this time students are likely to ask themselves fundamental questions: what does the future hold for me? How can I be more resilient and prepare for the world of work? What are my aspirations for the future and how can I achieve them? It is here that Character and Values plays a key role.​

We Character and Values covers a wide range of topics throughout the academic year: mental and physical health, careers, politics and religion, developing a growth mind-set and resilience, building healthy relationships, world cultures and global understanding. Our aim is to equip students with the qualities they need to be successful, confident and tolerant members of an ever evolving and diverse modern society.

Through discussion, group work and individual projects, self-evaluation and key speakers, we endeavour to engage, inspire and educate students from Years 7 – 11 to become fully rounded adults. We believe that through understanding their own motivations and who they are, they can then look to comprehend the world around them.

As part of the Government initiative ‘Promoting Fundamental British Values,’ we aim to challenge our students’ beliefs and opinions and give them essential life skills and attributes needed for life in a global society. As a school, we believe that it is important for us to help our students understand what is meant by good character and moral compass; we do this by allowing them to think about who they are as young people and where their future could lead them.

As students progress, they begin to take a look towards their future and there is an emphasis on careers, resilience and growth mind-set. Students examine the skills and qualifications needed in order to achieve their long-term goals, how to remain resilient during times of importance and how to manage stress. As part of this, Year 11 students are able to work with a Mental Health and Well-being expert at West Berkshire. It is our aim that all students at Park House have the opportunity to move onto their desired educational pathway as best prepared as possible.