Sevenoaks School Middle School Diploma Middle School Diploma | Page 8

CORE VALUES There are seven Core Values that we seek to nurture in the Middle School, and these underscore all elements of the curriculum and the activities with which you are engaged – whether inside or outside the classroom. They are defined as follows: Creativity Collaboration Students are encouraged to think imaginatively and to be adaptable. They try out different solutions and evaluate their strengths. They are encouraged to see existing situations in new and different ways. Students learn in collaborative, cooperative ways, both as leaders and as members of a team. They acquire effective communication skills and understand the importance of active listening. They learn to negotiate, compromise and show consideration for alternative points of view. Independent Learning Students learn to think for themselves. They develop a natural sense of curiosity and ask thoughtful questions. They acquire skills in research and enquiry. They learn how to manage their time and take responsibility for their own progress. Critical Thinking Students develop understanding of themselves and the way they learn. They learn to prioritise and to be resilient in the face of challenge. They aspire towards intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual well-being. Students acquire the ability to comprehend, analyse and synthesise information. They explore strengths and weaknesses of multiple answers and question assumptions. They argue points of information persuasively and learn to solve problems in different ways. social responsibility Students explore the implications of moral and ethical decisions. They acquire a principled, compassionate worldview and are sensitive to the needs of others. They exhibit honesty, personal responsibility and a sense of commitment in all areas of school life. International Understanding Each of the five Diploma categories has these qualities as underlying aims. However, it is true that each category will also place emphasis on some elements more than others. Students develop knowledge of ideas, issues and themes in a real world global context. They explore ethical, social and political contexts and the relationships between them. They identify ways in which notions of justice, tolerance and peace can be realised. 8 Self-awareness When you reflect on your contributions and the way you have learned in each area, we expect you to refer to these kinds of qualities. the MIDDLE SCHOOL DIPLOMA | AT SEVENOAKS