At Oakley Lower School we have introduced values to be emphasised by the whole school community throughout school life and beyond.

Values are principles, fundamental convictions, standards, guides to behaviour and reference points in decision making.

Values are chosen as a result of consultation between staff and children and may include honest, peace, humility, freedom, co-operation, care, love, unity, friendship, happiness, patience, quality and thoughtfulness.

Care of all is a fundamental principle of values based education, along with showing respect.  Children soon spot inconsistencies between what adults say and what they do so humour is also a pre-requisite.

Values are what we care about most.  When we are not true to our values or when we compromise, we lose self respect. 

People care about different things at different levels.  For example, some find justice vital, for others it is compassion.  A severe clash of values for ourselves or between each other is the cause of most conflicts.

While recognising values may differ from family to family and through tradition, it is our aim that we will uphold the values felt to be most important for the children to become well-rounded responsible citizens.