Promoting Values
At King’s Cross Academy, values are at the heart of everything we do.
We believe that education should develop not only knowledge and skills, but also character. Through our curriculum, relationships, enrichment opportunities and wider school culture, we help children develop the qualities they need to flourish as learners, citizens and members of society.
Our six school values underpin daily life at the Academy:
- Courage
- Respect
- Kindness
- Integrity
- Endurance
- Aspiration
These values shape the decisions we make, the way we treat one another and the learning experiences we provide. They help children understand who they are, how they can contribute positively to their communities and how they can make a difference in the wider world.
A Values-Led Curriculum
Our curriculum is organised around a series of enquiry questions that are linked to our school values. Each half term, children explore a significant question that encourages them to think deeply about themselves, others and the world around them.
Through these enquiries, children encounter important ideas, historical events, scientific discoveries, ethical dilemmas and diverse perspectives. They are encouraged to ask questions, consider evidence, listen to different viewpoints and develop their own informed opinions.
This approach helps children understand that values are not simply words on a wall. They are principles that can guide actions, shape decisions and influence the kind of society we create.
Our Values in Action
Courage
We encourage children to be brave in their learning, to take risks, challenge themselves and stand up for what is right. Courage helps children develop resilience, confidence and a willingness to embrace new experiences and opportunities.
Respect
Respect lies at the centre of our school community. Children learn to value themselves, others and the world around them. They develop an appreciation of different cultures, beliefs, identities and perspectives, helping them become thoughtful and responsible citizens.
Kindness
Kindness helps create a culture where everyone feels welcomed, supported and valued. Children learn the importance of empathy, compassion and helping others, both within school and in the wider community.
Integrity
Children are encouraged to act honestly, take responsibility for their actions and make ethical decisions. Through discussion, reflection and real-life examples, they learn the importance of fairness, trust and doing the right thing even when it is difficult.
Endurance
We teach children that success often comes through effort, perseverance and determination. Endurance helps pupils develop resilience, learn from mistakes and continue striving towards their goals when faced with challenges.
Aspiration
We want every child to believe in their potential. Through ambitious learning, enrichment opportunities and exposure to a wide range of experiences, children are encouraged to dream big and pursue their goals with confidence.
British Values
The Department for Education requires schools to actively promote the fundamental British values of:
- Democracy
- The Rule of Law
- Individual Liberty
- Mutual Respect
- Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs
At King’s Cross Academy, these values are not taught in isolation. They are embedded throughout our curriculum, school culture and daily interactions.
Children learn about democracy through pupil leadership opportunities, class discussions, voting and decision-making. They develop an understanding of the rule of law through clear expectations, restorative conversations and learning about how societies function. Individual liberty is promoted through opportunities for choice, self-expression and developing personal responsibility.
Mutual respect and tolerance are woven throughout school life. Our diverse community provides rich opportunities for children to learn about different cultures, faiths, identities and experiences. Through discussion, collaboration and shared experiences, children learn to value and celebrate difference.
By promoting our school values alongside the fundamental British values, we prepare children to become active, responsible and compassionate members of modern British society.
If you would like to find out more about our values-led approach, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
Our school is part of an inspiring campus and is a focal point for the growing community at King’s Cross.
Stephen Mitchell Head Teacher