Character Development Recognition
At Eastfield Primary Academy, we believe education is about more than academic achievement. We want our children to develop the knowledge, skills, attitudes and personal qualities that will help them flourish at Eastfield, in their community and in the future.
Our three drivers of Pride, Collaboration and Understanding underpin our approach to character development. We want our children to become resilient, confident, caring and responsible individuals who recognise the contribution they can make to their school and wider community.
We also recognise that children do not all have equal access to opportunities outside school. Our Character Development Recognition therefore provides a wide range of experiences within and beyond the Academy, with children able to work individually, in groups or collaboratively as a class. This ensures that every child has opportunities to participate, contribute and have their achievements recognised.
Our Four Building Blocks
Our Character Development Recognition is based around four key building blocks:
Participation
Encouraging children to get involved, try new experiences and contribute to Academy and community life.
Learning
Developing curiosity, determination, confidence and a positive attitude towards learning, both inside and outside the classroom.
Leadership
Providing opportunities for children to take responsibility, lead others and contribute positively to Academy life.
Support
Encouraging children to help others, work collaboratively, show kindness and recognise the importance of contributing to their community.
Opportunities to Develop Character
Throughout their time at Eastfield, children have opportunities to develop these characteristics through a broad range of experiences. These might include:
• performing in productions and celebrations;
• representing Eastfield at sporting events;
• attending clubs;
• visiting the library, places of worship and other educational settings;
• taking part in trips and visits;
• meeting authors, visitors and career ambassadors;
• becoming pupil leaders, Sports Leaders or Wellbeing Champions;
• supporting charitable and community events;
• reading with and supporting other children;
• taking part in enterprise activities; and
• demonstrating kindness, perseverance, teamwork and responsibility.
These are examples rather than an exhaustive list. Children, families and staff are encouraged to identify other experiences that demonstrate Participation, Learning, Leadership or Support.
Recognising and Celebrating Achievement
Character development can take place at any time throughout the academic year and activities can be completed individually, in groups, across classes or as a whole class.
We celebrate children's collective achievements through our Character Development Recognition display. When a class achieves recognition, an elephant is added to the display, allowing successes to be shared and celebrated across Eastfield.
Our approach deliberately recognises the contribution of the whole class. We want children to encourage and inspire one another to participate, while understanding that everyone can contribute in different ways.
For particularly exceptional achievements, a red elephant may be awarded at the discretion of staff.
Through Character Development Recognition, we want every child to recognise their strengths, discover new interests, contribute to their community and develop the confidence and character to flourish both now and in the future.