Character is a complex concept with a number of overlapping facets. There are four important aspects, which can inform the way we shape our wider provision for children and young people:

the ability to remain motivated by long-term goals, to see a link between effort in the present and pay-off in the longer-term, overcoming and persevering through, and learning from, setbacks when encountered;
the learning and habituation of positive moral attributes, sometimes known as ‘virtues’, and including, for example, courage, honesty, generosity, integrity, humility and a sense of justice, alongside others;
the acquisition of social confidence and the ability to make points or arguments clearly and constructively, listen attentively to the views of others, behave with courtesy and good manners and speak persuasively to an audience; and
an appreciation of the importance of long-term commitments which frame the successful and fulfilled life, for example to spouse, partner, role or vocation, the local community, to faith or world view. This helps individuals to put down deep roots and gives stability and longevity to lifetime endeavours.

Barnwell School prides itself on providing all students with the opportunity to achieve personal academic success. We have recognised that students who realise and surpass their individual academic targets have some key character traits that have facilitated their outstanding learning journey. These traits all revolve around the acronym PRIDE.

P = PASSIONATE

"Having a drive and thirst for learning which is relentless throughout your learning journey".

R = RESPECTFUL

"Having the ability to accept that people's opinions and beliefs are important and not try to change them".

I = INNOVATIVE

"Having the courage to think creatively when looking for new methods to lead you to success".

D = DETERMINED

"Having an unwavering desire to succeed regardless of the barriers".

E = EMPATHETIC

"Having the ability to understand the feelings and circumstances of others".

Embedding a sense of PRIDE into all aspects of school life is of paramount importance within the school with students being encouraged and guided towards displaying these traits on a daily basis. This key aspect of Barnwell life has contributed towards the elevation of student's individual aspirations and self-confidence.

"Take pride in all you do and be proud of all your successes".

'Pupils take pride in their school, in their work and in themselves' (Ofsted, January 2018)

Black History Month 2022

Throughout October Black History Month was promoted at Barnwell. During lessons and pastoral time, and through assemblies and competitions, students had the opportunity to discuss and develop awareness of a range of key individuals linked to Black History.

To find out more about Black History Month at Barnwell School, please click this link.

Black History Month is one of the many National and International Awareness areas that we focus as part of our equity and diversity education provision. Others include:

Remembrance Day (November)
International Men's Day (November)
LBGTQ+ History Month (February)
Women's History Month (March)
PRIDE Month (June)
School Diversity Week (June)