Character
Education

“If we wish to renew society, we must raise up a generation of children who have strong moral character. And if we wish to do that, we have two responsibilities: first, to model good character in our own lives, and second, to intentionally foster character development in our young”. Thomas Lickona

Ambition: Desire and determination to achieve success

Strive for our own individual goals and those of others

Demonstrate motivation to thrive in all areas of our lives

Respect: Know your own self-worth and the value you give to society

Recognise we are all different from one another and deserve respect

Care for our immediate and wider environment

Character Education

Character education focuses on teaching and fostering positive character virtues, values, and ethical principles in students. The goal of character education is to help students develop essential qualities and behaviours that promote responsible and respectful citizenship, as well as personal and social growth.

This form of education goes beyond academic learning and aims to shape the moral and ethical compass of students. Character education involves integrating moral and ethical lessons into the curriculum and school culture, creating a supportive environment for students to understand and practice positive values.

The ultimate aim of character education is to prepare students not only for academic success but also for becoming morally upright and socially responsible individuals who contribute positively to society. By promoting good character, we will cultivate a supportive and respectful learning environment that enhances the overall well-being of students at Plume.

The four core Plume values are defined as follows:

Resilience: Embrace the opportunity to face challenges

Value the chance to learn and grow from both our successes and mistakes

Adapt to change and manage stress to overcome set-backs

Community: Recognise the diverse community in which we live

Commit to making a positive contribution

Value and connect with our community with purpose and pride

Practical Wisdom

Practical wisdom, also known as phronesis (a Greek term), refers to the ability to apply knowledge, experience, and sound judgment to navigate complex real-life situations and make wise, well-balanced decisions. To put it simply, practical wisdom “is the ability to do the right thing, at the right time, for the right reason.”

Practical Wisdom and Character Education

Practical wisdom and character education are closely linked in their focus on developing individuals who possess ethical values, make responsible decisions, and contribute positively to society. The integration of practical wisdom into character education programs enhances the development of students' moral and ethical reasoning, allowing them to apply their values and virtues effectively in real-life situations.

Here are some ways in which practical wisdom and character education intersect:

Ethical Decision-Making: Practical wisdom emphasises the ability to make morally sound decisions by considering the broader context and consequences of actions. Character education instils ethical values and principles in students, providing them with a strong foundation for making ethical choices.

Balancing Conflicting Values: Character education teaches students about different virtues and values. Practical wisdom helps them navigate situations where different values may conflict, encouraging them to find a balanced approach that upholds ethical principles.

Experience and Learning: Character education often involves reflective practices, encouraging students to learn from their experiences and apply those lessons to future decisions. Practical wisdom, too, is honed through experience, learning, and self-reflection.

Flexibility and Adaptability: Both practical wisdom and character education emphasise the importance of flexibility in decision-making. As students encounter diverse situations, they learn to adapt their understanding of virtues and values to fit the specific circumstances.

Role Models and Mentors: Character education often involves exposure to role models and mentors who embody practical wisdom in their actions. Observing individuals with strong moral character can reinforce the importance of practical wisdom in students' minds.

By integrating practical wisdom into character education, we can help students become not only knowledgeable individuals but also morally responsible and compassionate citizens. This combination of ethical values and practical decision-making skills equips students to face the complexities of life with integrity, empathy, and wisdom.

Civic Values