Our values
At Priestlands, we believe that a great education is not just about academic success - we are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all students.
We aim to develop students who are Ready, Respectful and Responsible in everything they do. These are the values that guide how we learn, how we behave, and how we treat one another at school.
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Ready – with the right equipment, a positive attitude, and excellent punctuality
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Respectful – of others’ wellbeing, of teachers and peers, and of our school environment
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Responsible – for our learning, behaviour and attendance
These 3Rs are part of our everyday expectations and help us create a safe, positive and supportive community.
We also run a rich Character Education programme, which supports students in developing important life skills and personal strengths. This is built on the nationally recognised Jubilee Centre Framework for Character Education in Schools and focuses on five key areas:
1. Empathy – understanding and caring for others
2. Resilience – learning how to cope with challenges and setbacks
3. Self-Regulation – managing emotions, staying focused, and making thoughtful decisions
4. Integrity – being honest, fair and taking responsibility for your actions
5. Collaboration – working well with others and valuing different views
Through lessons, assemblies, group activities, and school life in general, we help students practise these values every day.
British Values at Priestlands
The British Government has set out five key values to help young people become responsible members of society. At Priestlands, these are part of our daily life:
1. Democracy
We teach students that everyone has a voice. They take part in school decisions by voting for Tutor Reps, the Student Council, and Head Boy and Head Girl. In lessons like History, RE and Ethics, students learn how democracy works and why it matters.
2. The Rule of Law
We help students understand why rules and laws exist—at school, in the community, and across the country. They learn that laws keep us safe and that breaking them has consequences. Respecting rules is an important part of life at Priestlands.
3. Individual Liberty
Students are encouraged to make their own choices and to understand their rights and freedoms. We teach them how to use these safely and responsibly—for example, through E-Safety lessons. We are proud to be a school with a strong anti-bullying culture.
4. Mutual Respect
Respect is at the heart of our school. Students are expected to treat each other with kindness and understand that everyone deserves to be listened to. We show students that respectful behaviour helps everyone learn and thrive.
5. Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs
We celebrate diversity and help students understand and respect different cultures, religions and lifestyles. Through PSHE, Life Skills, assemblies and special awareness days, we create opportunities for students to explore the wider world and their place in it.
Our Goal
We want every student to leave Priestlands with a strong sense of who they are, what they stand for, and how to play a positive role in our community and the world around them.
