Character

Intent

My intent is to make Hoo St Werburgh a place where children acquire the character virtues that lead to success in school and university, in work and life beyond. Character Education can be defined as the active development of character strengths or virtues in young people. The practice of character education is based on the view that these strengths are not merely given but can be developed through instruction and practice.

Character is both ‘taught’ and ‘caught’. Taught because pupils need to learn directly about character strengths and virtues, and to be given opportunities to practise them. Caught because pupils need to be exposed to the concepts and language of character throughout their experience of school. This is best delivered through the ethos of the school, by teachers and other adults in school acting as role models, by empowering children to be role models and recognising them publicly as such, and by engineering enrichment activity so that it emphasises character development.

I intend to develop four core dimensions to character: intellectual, performance, moral and civic. A complete character education seeks to develop pupils along all four dimensions, and in this broad conception character encompasses academic achievement as a route to the development of intellectual character strength.

At Hoo St Werburgh, our PSHE curriculum aims to equip students with essential life skills and knowledge, fostering their personal development and wellbeing. Through interactive lessons, pupils explore themes such as emotional health, relationships, safety, and citizenship. We focus on building resilience, empathy, and self-awareness, enabling children to make informed choices and develop positive relationships. Our inclusive approach ensures every child feels valued and understands diversity and respect. By promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills, we prepare students to navigate the challenges of modern life confidently and responsibly, laying a strong foundation for their future growth and success.

Implementation

At Hoo St Werburgh, our PSHE curriculum is implemented through a structured and dynamic approach, integrating it into the school day. Weekly dedicated PSHE lessons are delivered using engaging and age-appropriate resources, including discussions, role-plays, and collaborative activities. Cross-curricular links with subjects like PE, science, and RE reinforce key concepts. Assemblies and themed weeks, such as Cool to be kind week and Mental Health Awareness, provide additional opportunities for deeper exploration. Teachers receive continuous professional development to stay updated on best practices. Assessment is ongoing, using observations and reflective tasks, ensuring that each child’s personal growth and understanding are effectively monitored and supported.

Our character development curriculum is implemented through a holistic approach that weaves the school values of courage, confidence, respect, and belonging into daily activities. Lessons focus on real-life scenarios, encouraging students to practice bravery in new situations, build self-assurance, and demonstrate respect for others. Group projects, peer mentoring and leadership roles foster a sense of belonging and community. Assemblies and classroom discussions highlight these values. Teachers model and reinforce positive behaviours, and reflective floor books allow children to self-assess their growth. Continuous teacher training ensures consistency and effectiveness in nurturing well-rounded individuals.

Impact

The impact of our PSHE curriculum at HSW is evident in the well-rounded development of our children. Pupils demonstrate increased emotional intelligence, making thoughtful decisions and managing relationships effectively. They exhibit resilience and confidence, tackling challenges with a positive mindset. Our emphasis on respect and diversity fosters an inclusive school environment where every child feels valued and understood. Regular assessments show students have a solid understanding of safety, health, and citizenship, preparing them for future societal roles. Feedback from parents and the community reflects the positive influence of our program, as students carry these essential life skills beyond the classroom.

The impact of our character development curriculum at Hoo is evident in the growth of our children as empathetic, confident, and respectful individuals. Pupils regularly demonstrate the school values of courage, confidence, respect, and belonging, both in and out of the classroom. They approach new challenges with bravery and self-assurance, showing resilience and a positive mindset. Through collaborative projects and peer interactions, students build strong, respectful relationships and a sense of community. Observations and assessments reveal improved social skills and emotional intelligence.