At Northallerton School & Sixth Form College, we believe education is about far more than academic success. Our aim is to develop confident, responsible and compassionate young people who are prepared to contribute positively to society.
Character development sits at the heart of our school culture. It underpins our curriculum, behaviour systems and daily routines. We call this The Northallerton Way.
The Northallerton Way sets out the expectations that create a calm, respectful and ambitious environment where everyone can thrive.
These simple, consistent expectations allow learning to flourish. They help students feel safe, focused and ready to achieve their best.
Alongside clear routines, we explicitly teach and model the character traits we want our students to develop
These values are woven through our curriculum, assemblies, tutor time and wider enrichment programme. Students are recognised and celebrated when they demonstrate them in action.
Our culture is built on a clear set of Key Drivers that guide everything we do
These drivers shape our approach to teaching, behaviour, leadership and personal development.
Our Behaviour for Learning system supports students to make positive choices and take responsibility for their actions. Clear routines and consistent expectations ensure fairness and clarity for all.
Positive conduct is recognised and celebrated regularly. Students are rewarded for effort, improvement and living out our values. Where behaviour falls short of expectations, it is addressed calmly and consistently, with a focus on reflection and improvement.
Our approach is rooted in high expectations and strong relationships. Students know that adults will support them to succeed, both academically and personally.
Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural development is embedded throughout the curriculum and school life. Students explore:
Ethical issues and moral reasoning
Diversity, equality and inclusion
Cultural awareness and appreciation
Leadership and responsibility
Community engagement
Through assemblies, tutor programmes, enrichment activities and subject teaching, students develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to thrive in modern Britain.
We use Jigsaw, the mindful approach to PSHE, which provides a comprehensive, carefully thought-through scheme of work, bringing consistency and progression to pupils' learning in this vital curriculum area. Social and interpersonal skills are vital, and emotional literacy and positive mental health are key to young people thriving in school and in life.
See our Personal Development Curriuclum Overview
We actively promote British Values across the school community. These are:
Democracy
The rule of law
Individual liberty
Mutual respect
Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs
These values are reinforced through curriculum content, assemblies, student leadership opportunities and our daily expectations.
