- Familiarise yourself with and use the language of the five characteristic definitions when discussing school at home
- Praise them for persevering; willingness to take a risk; eagerness to seek out challenges; showing curiosity; trying new things and getting things wrong
- Understand that formative assessment is the most valuable kind of feedback. Talk about how they can improve their work.
- When they receive test or exam results, avoid talking about grade boundaries, class averages etc. Help them to reflect on what they have learned and how they can prepare or perform better next time
- Encourage them not to compare themselves to others
- Do not worry if they find a task or subject difficult. Encourage them to believe in their own ability and action rather than immediately seeking further help from teachers
- Talk about getting things wrong as a fantastic learning opportunity rather than something to fear or be disappointed about
- Remain optimistic when they’re feeling disappointed or are struggling. Set-backs are always learning opportunities
- Encourage responsibility: spend sufficient time on prep; take pride in work; keep books and files safe and well-organised; catch up with work they miss through unavoidable absences from lessons
- Talk about things they can’t do or are not good at as things they have not mastered yet
- Encourage them to approach all subjects with a positive and open mind, even and especially the ones which they do not enjoy (yet)
- Develop an enquiring mind through discussion and debate at home. Encourage them to watch and read the news in order to develop their global awareness and empathy
- Encourage independence. For example, let them order in a restaurant or complain if something is not right themselves
Definitions of the Five Characteristics:
Resilient: They treat set-backs as challenges that they can learn from and see all experiences as valuable. They are flexible and treat constructive feedback as useful advice. They help others to move forward when they are struggling or feeling discouraged by offering support and advice.
Confident: They speak out with confidence but listen to the arguments of others. They are positive approaching new challenges and situations, even when they might test them. They contribute pro-actively to group work and are prepared to lead.
Adventurous: They take risks and are not afraid to make mistakes. They accept every opportunity given to them, knowing there are no easy answers. They understand the importance of collaboration and adaptability and are prepared to work in different ways with different people.
Creative: They regularly review their learning to make continuous improvements. They contribute ideas to their own development. They show originality in their work whatever the subject and develop a personal style both inside and outside the classroom, there is no ‘one type’ at Leweston.
Inquisitive: They are actively seeking out knowledge beyond their immediate experience. They make links between new ideas and skills across the whole curriculum and understand that teachers are there to help them learn but not to give them the answers