Education with Character

At EBA, we are committed to providing Education with Character. We present our students with engaging opportunities, experiences and programmes that encourage them to try new experiences, explore their passions, and cultivate their skills while reinforcing their core values. These broad opportunities are essential in helping our students develop the character traits that are crucial for their future success. This approach aligns with one of the six key principles within United Learning's Curriculum.

Our goal at EBA is to offer a thoughtfully designed programme tailored to help our students grow into well-rounded, successful individuals. We believe that these experiences will help our students develop the character traits, attributes, and behaviours that are fundamental to achieving success in both education and their future careers.

At EBA, we are committed to developing students who are not only academically accomplished but also equipped with the character traits that will serve them well throughout their lives. Through our focus on Ambition, Perseverance, and Unity, we prepare our students to achieve their full potential, both in school and beyond.

Our mission at EBA is to ‘build character, create confident, independent, socially responsible individuals who are equipped to make a positive contribution to society and the world of work.’ all of which are closely aligned with our school values of Ambition, Perseverance, and Unity.

How we develop character education and build students’ character at Ernest Bevin Academy?

At EBA, character education is woven into every aspect of school life. We believe that building strong, well-rounded individuals goes together with academic excellence. Here’s how we promote and develop character through a variety of methods, strategies, and programmes:

1. Promoting and embedding our core values: Our core values of Ambition, Perseverance, and Unity are central to everything we do. We ensure these values are consistently reinforced across all areas of school life. From classroom activities to sports and beyond, students are encouraged to embody these values in their daily actions and decisions.
   
   
2. PSHE lessons at all key stages: Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) education is a cornerstone of our character education approach. Through structured lessons at all key stages, students explore important topics like resilience, respect, and responsibility. These lessons provide a dedicated space to discuss and develop the character traits that will serve them throughout their lives.
   
   
3. Tutor Time structured programme: Our Tutor Time programme is carefully designed to reinforce our core values and support personal development. Each session is structured to include discussions, activities, and reflections that help students connect with and apply these values in real-world contexts.
   
   
4. Assemblies: Our assemblies serve as a key platform for promoting our school’s core values and British Modern Values, as well as celebrating both national and international events. These gatherings are not only an opportunity to recognize and celebrate student achievements, but also to provide students with valuable information on important topics and policies. We cover a wide range of subjects, including discrimination, online safety, anti-bullying, and pastoral care, ensuring that our students are well-informed and prepared to navigate the challenges they may face. Assemblies are a powerful tool in reinforcing our values, building a strong community, and equipping students with the knowledge and character traits essential for their success.
   
   
5. Talks from inspiring speakers and alumni: We regularly invite inspiring speakers, including successful alumni, to share their stories with our students. These talks provide real-life examples of how character traits such as ambition and perseverance lead to success, offering students motivation and practical advice for their own journeys.
   
   
6. Enrichment programme: Our Enrichment programme runs throughout the academic year, offering a wide range of extra-curricular and co-curricular clubs, societies, workshops and trips. These activities provide students with opportunities to develop new skills, build relationships, and practice our core values in diverse settings, from sports and arts to academic pursuits and community service.
   
   
7. Leadership programmes/opportunities for students: We offer numerous leadership opportunities to help students build confidence, responsibility, and teamwork skills. Roles such as Year 11 Prefects, Year 13 Top Boys, Ambassadors, EWC Champions, Eco Leaders, School Council members, Sports Captains, Wellbeing Mentors, and Combined Cadet Force participants provide students with platforms to lead and positively influence their peers.
   
   
8. Curriculum integration: Our curriculum is designed to integrate character education into every subject. By linking academic content with our core values, we ensure that students see the relevance of character traits like perseverance and ambition in all areas of study, from science to humanities.
   
   
9. Sports programmes: These unique activities such as Judo and Basketball run before school, at lunch time and after school. They not only help our students develop physical skills but also promote discipline, focus, and perseverance. Through regular practice and competition, students learn the importance of commitment and resilience, key traits that align with our core values.
   
   
10. Music instrument programme: Learning a musical instrument teaches patience, dedication, and teamwork. Our music instrument programme offers students the chance to develop these skills while exploring their creative potential, reinforcing the values of perseverance and unity through practice and performance.
    
    
11. Personal development and growth mindset programme with First Give: Partnering with First Give, our personal development and growth mindset programme encourages students to adopt a positive, resilient mindset. By focusing on personal growth and community impact, students learn the importance of setting goals, embracing challenges, and making a difference.
    
    
12. Careers education, destinations and employability: Our careers education, destinations and employability programme prepares students for the future by linking character education with career planning. We help students understand how traits like ambition and perseverance are essential for achieving their career goals, providing guidance and support as they plan their next steps.
    
    
13. Praise and recognition: We believe in the power of recognition to reinforce positive behaviour and character development. Our praise and awards system, including Praise Points, Attendance Certificates, Uniform Golden Tickets, Subject Awards, Principal’s Breakfast, Student of the Week shout-outs, and various group awards, celebrates students who consistently demonstrate our core values. These awards motivate students to continue striving for excellence and embodying the traits that lead to success.

14. Community service: Opportunities for involvement in community service projects will be offered. These might include local environmental initiatives, supporting local charities, and helping with school events.

At EBA, our comprehensive approach to character education ensures that students not only excel academically but also develop the character and values necessary for lifelong success. Through these programs and initiatives, we are committed to shaping well-rounded, resilient, and ambitious individuals who are ready to make a positive impact in the world.