Developing Character and Culture
Our greatest asset at the Wensleydale School & Sixth Form are our students. The school has hard working, respectful students’ that visitors always praise. I want to develop that further. Starting this September, I have introduced a new programme that looks to develop the character of our students and the culture of the school. Students are taking part in self-chosen activities which develop their skills in Leadership, Organisation, Resilience, Initiative and Communication – or as we call them LORIC. The students have to plan, monitor and evaluate their activities which are then verified by their tutors. After completing ten of these tasks they gain a certificate which is recognised by many employers and educational institutions. The majority of students have started at least one task and some are now finishing their first and going on to their second. The range of activities available to them is extensive and includes things such as organising a charity event, helping support younger children in class, leading a group in an activity, presenting in an assembly through to more advanced tasks such as organising the school prom. The tasks are age and ability rated. In parallel, we are running a series of assemblies and tutor time activities based on developing the culture of the school through three main strands: Showing Respect, Doing no Harm and Being Kind. The presentations and workshops will develop the students’ understanding of why these three strands are so important and the positive impact it can have on ourselves, our school and our community.
Finally, I am creating a strong student leadership identity in the school with the establishment of a senior student leadership team that will work with staff and governors, oversee our student council and organise other student ambassadors around the school.
These developments will strengthen the character and culture of our school. We are not just about exams, we are about the developing the whole student and and supporting our community.
Mark Ashcroft- Assistant Headteacher (Character and Culture)
