Character Curriculum

Cultivating Character: Our Commitment to Holistic Education

At Monkwick Infant School and Nursery, we believe that education extends far beyond academic achievement. We are deeply committed to nurturing the whole person, equipping our students not only with knowledge and skills, but also with the strong moral and intellectual character necessary to thrive in a complex world and contribute positively to society.

Our approach to character education is inspired by the comprehensive framework developed by the Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues/ Values at the University of Birmingham. This framework emphasises the cultivation of a broad range of virtues that enable individuals to flourish, both personally and communally.

The Jubilee Centre Framework highlights four key dimensions of character:

1. Intellectual Virtues: These virtues enable us to think well, pursue truth, and make sound judgments. They include qualities such as curiosity, critical thinking, attentiveness, intellectual humility, and intellectual courage. We foster these by encouraging active inquiry, promoting rigorous discussion, and challenging students to engage deeply with ideas.

2. Moral Virtues: These virtues guide our actions and interactions, enabling us to do the right thing, even when it's difficult. Key moral virtues include compassion, justice, integrity, honesty, empathy, and respect. We embed these through explicit teaching, restorative practices, service, learning opportunities, and by modelling ethical behaviour within our school community.

3. Civic Virtues: These virtues underpin our ability to be responsible and engaged citizens, contributing to the common good of our communities and beyond. They encompass qualities like active citizenship, responsibility, lawfulness, service, and respect for diversity. We develop these through democratic processes within the school, community projects, and by fostering an understanding of societal structures and global issues.

4. Performance Virtues: These virtues enable us to achieve our goals, overcome challenges, and persevere in the face of adversity. Examples include resilience, determination, perseverance, self-discipline, and teamwork. We cultivate these through challenging academic tasks, extracurricular activities, sporting endeavours, and by encouraging a growth mindset where effort and learning from mistakes are valued.

How We Cultivate Character at Monkwick Infant School and Nursery:

Character education is not an add-on; it is woven into the very fabric of our school life.

• Curriculum Integration: Virtues are explicitly discussed and explored within subjects, connecting academic learning to real-world ethical dilemmas and opportunities for positive action.

• Explicit Teaching: We dedicate time to discussing and reflecting on character, using stories, role-playing, and real-life scenarios to deepen understanding.

• Role Modelling: Our staff are committed to embodying the virtues we seek to instill, serving as positive role models for our students.

• School Ethos and Culture: Our school environment is built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to personal growth and community well-being.

• Extra-curricular Activities: Our range of clubs and sports provide opportunities for students to develop teamwork, resilience, leadership, and a sense of responsibility.

• Student Leadership and Voice: We empower students to take on leadership roles, express their opinions, and contribute to decision-making, fostering a sense of civic responsibility.

• Partnerships: We work closely with parents, carers, and the wider community to reinforce character development both within and beyond the school gates.

By consistently focusing on these dimensions of character, Monkwick Infant School and Nursery aims to empower our students to become articulate, confident, and compassionate individuals who are well-prepared to lead fulfilling lives and make a positive difference in the world.

Through a wide range of curricular and extra-curricular activities, we provide opportunities for pupils to develop these essential traits in meaningful and engaging ways. From thought-provoking assemblies and dedicated character education lessons to enriching experiences in sports, performance arts, and clubs, we inspire students to explore and express their unique character.

Our Character Curriculum helps children to build the skills they need for resilience, empathy, and future employability, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of an ever-changing world. At Monkwick Infant School, we are proud to develop well-rounded, compassionate, and capable young people who will thrive in school and beyond.