INTENT
Through Character and Values Education we want to shape well-rounded, thoughtful and socially responsible individuals who are ready to contribute positively to their community and the wider world. Our intent is to advance the education of all children by providing rich, meaningful learning experiences that teach essential life skills, develop individual interests and build strong personal values.

Central to our approach are the three core character virtues we explicitly teach and model throughout the school: Hard Work, Trust and Respect. These values underpin all aspects of school life and are woven into the fabric of our curriculum, forming the foundation for behaviour, relationships and personal growth.

At Monteagle we offer a skills-based, knowledge-rich curriculum that is enriched with real-life experiences. Through initiatives such as the ‘50 Things to Do Before 11¾’, our pupils have opportunities to engage in hands-on, enriching activities such as gardening, cooking, performance and educational trips. These experiences are carefully designed to enhance cultural capital, build confidence and develop the wider vocabulary and social-emotional skills that support lifelong success.

Service learning is also a key component of our provision. Children are encouraged to take part in purposeful activities that benefit others, fostering empathy, social awareness and a strong sense of civic responsibility. Whether through school-led initiatives or wider community projects, pupils learn that their actions can have a positive impact on the world around them.

We believe that high-quality character education is essential for every child’s development. By embedding our values, promoting service learning and offering a wide range of enriching experiences, we aim to nurture children who are resilient, reflective, respectful, and ready to lead with integrity. Our children leave Monteagle equipped not only with academic knowledge, but with the personal character to thrive in modern society.

IMPLEMENTATION
Character and Values Education is not taught through a single scheme like traditional subjects; it is woven throughout the curriculum and embedded in the school’s ethos and everyday practice.

  • School Values – At Monteagle we particularly value these three virtues: Working Hard, Trust and Respect. These virtues are displayed around the school and embedded in all we do.
  • ‘50 Things to Do Before 11¾’ – This programme provides all pupils with access to a range of enriching, hands-on experiences that encourages them to try new things, discover more about their interests and build confidence.
  • Service learning opportunities – Charity fundraising, school and community projects, and pupil leadership roles such as student council—allow children to develop empathy, responsibility and a sense of contribution to something bigger than themselves.
  • Curriculum Integration – Character education is embedded across the curriculum, with cross-curricular links to PSHE, RE, History and English, ensuring that children see values in action across different contexts.
  • Assembly Focus and Moral Reflection – Assemblies are used to reinforce core values, celebrate positive character traits in action and explore moral dilemmas, encouraging children to reflect on their behaviour and choices.
  • Values-Based Behaviour Expectations – behaviour expectations are built around our school values, creating a consistent culture of respect and trust across the school. This is reinforced by the SEMH team that use the Thrive approach.
  • Equity and Inclusion – Pupils with SEMH/SEND needs or those facing disadvantage are given tailored support and access to enrichment opportunities to ensure equity in character development. We integrate and include children from our Autistic Resource Provision in mainstream lessons and trips when it is suitable for them.
  • British Values—Democracy, Rule of Law, Individual Liberty, Mutual Respect and Tolerance—are actively taught through assemblies and embedded in the curriculum and classroom practice.

Throughout all of this, oracy is a golden thread, with structured opportunities for discussion, debate, and reflection built into all of our lessons and activities, both in and out of school. Children are encouraged to express opinions, listen actively, and engage in respectful dialogue — skills that underpin both their learning and personal development.

IMPACT

Character and Values Education at Monteagle has a visible impact on pupils’ learning, behaviour, wellbeing and sense of belonging. The impact is seen in a variety of ways, including:

  • Pupils consistently demonstrate the school’s core values of Hard Work, Trust, and Respect in their behaviour, interactions and attitudes to learning.
  • Children show increased confidence, resilience and empathy, particularly when facing challenges, working in teams, or supporting others.
  • Improved relationships across the school community, with pupils engaging in respectful dialogue, resolving conflicts peacefully and showing care and consideration for others.
  • Greater participation in leadership roles, service learning and enrichment opportunities, especially among disadvantaged or previously disengaged pupils.
  • Pupils articulate their values and decision-making using well-developed oracy skills, reflecting on how their actions impact themselves and others.
  • Positive feedback from staff, parents and external visitors highlights pupils’ strong moral character, sense of responsibility and readiness to contribute to their community and the wider world.

The long-term impact of Character and Values Education at Monteagle is that children become confident, respectful, resilient and socially responsible individuals, prepared to thrive both within and beyond the school environment.