Shaping Character for a Bright Future
At The Whitehouse PRU, we prioritise character education as a cornerstone of our approach to helping pupils thrive both academically and personally. We understand that our SEMH pupils often require extra guidance and time to develop the traits, virtues, and dispositions essential for becoming well-rounded, responsible young adults.
Key Areas of Character Development
We build on intellectual, moral, civic, and performance virtues, teaching traits such as curiosity, respect, resilience, and teamwork. These are integrated throughout school life, fostering both academic success and personal growth.
Our Unique Approach
We use a three-pronged strategy to character development:
- Character Caught: Emphasising the role of our positive school environment, respectful relationships, and a shared ethos.
- Character Taught: Embedding character education into lessons such as PSHE, RE, and assemblies, along with broader activities like debates and school trips.
- Character Sought: Offering enrichment opportunities like leadership roles, residential trips, and social action projects to develop pupils’ passions and aspirations.
Activities and Initiatives
- Supportive Environment: A safe, inclusive setting where pupils feel valued and cared for.
- Curriculum Integration: Encouraging reflection, teamwork, and independent learning across subjects.
- Enrichment Opportunities: Leadership roles, school events, clubs, and residential trips to foster confidence and resilience.
- Social Action: Community initiatives like food bank donations, litter picking, and fundraising events.
Through these methods, The Whitehouse PRU equips pupils with the tools to excel academically and contribute positively to their communities. By promoting respect, kindness, and success, we prepare our pupils to meet the challenges of life with confidence and integrity.
