QUALITY OF PUPILS’ PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

In line with the school’s aspirations pupils develop a strong sense of belonging together with pride in themselves and the school. In an exploration of identity through the poetry of Wilfred Owen pupils wrote that they empathised with identity being a conflicting journey which changes throughout one’s life. They are reflective and resilient in many aspects, including settling in as new boarders and managing the peaks and troughs of friendships. In discussions, boarders demonstrated strong self-awareness about their approach to relationships and mental health issues.

Pupils show a strong awareness of ethical principles when making decisions. They have a clear sense of right and wrong when discussing subjects such as bullying and racism and recognise the need for the community to be welcoming and inclusive. In discussion they emphasised the importance of kindness, fulfilling the school’s aim that they should develop a generosity of spirit, tolerance and compassion.

Many pupils articulated the uplift they felt when raising their eyes to the beautiful backcloth of the school’s setting, some breaking their homeward journey to stop and watch the rays of the setting sun splicing into the sea. New pupils described the inspiration from the imposing buildings, sweeping grounds and gardens.

Pupils of all ages are socially aware, working effectively with others to solve problems and achieve common goals and showing perception