Personal Development

The children learn to appreciate their own cultural traditions and the diversity and richness of others. The school enjoys an historic setting and the children are proud of their connection with the cathedral through the choristers. Many other cultures are studied, for example through the focus of an annual creative arts project. We support an orphanage in Tanzania and raise money annually for both UNICEF and ActionAid. Annual visits to France give the children an opportunity to practise their language skills as well as explore the customs and traditions of another part of Europe. Each Year Group enjoys regular visits to museums or historic sites and there are opportunities to enjoy Theatre through Royal Shakespeare Company productions, for example.

Opportunities for development of a personal moral code occur across the curriculum; religious education and the weekly Personal and Social Education (PSE) lessons give explicit opportunities for topics of a moral or ethical nature to be discussed. Commitment to Christian values pervades the curriculum but the school recognises and respects the festivals of other faiths. Customs and traditions of other faiths are also studied in religious education and discussed in PSE.

We encourage the children to relate positively to one another, take responsibility and participate fully in the school community. In the junior school classes are re-constituted each year to ensure that children get to know as many of their contemporaries as possible. Friendly rivalry between Houses in a range of competitions promotes corporate and individual responsibility. All Year 6 pupils act as prefects with responsibilities in the younger forms under the supervision of the class teacher.


"Provision for pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is excellent, and one of the strengths of the school. The pupils feel well supported and develop confidence and self-esteem through the many opportunities to interact socially and take responsibility. The school encourages tolerance, understanding and respect for others' beliefs. It imparts strong moral values and explores the heritage and culture of Britain, Europe and the wider world"
Inspection report 2006