Character Curriculum

At Fountains High School, we believe that education is about much more than academic achievement. Our Character Curriculum supports pupils to develop the knowledge, skills, attitudes and personal qualities they need to lead happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Through a range of carefully planned experiences, we nurture confidence, resilience, independence, self-awareness and positive relationships, preparing pupils for adulthood and helping them to realise their full potential.

Central to our approach is GRIT, our research-informed programme that develops emotional regulation, wellbeing, resilience and self-understanding. Through GRIT, pupils learn strategies to manage emotions, build positive mental health, develop reflective thinking skills and grow in confidence as learners and individuals. The curriculum is built around the development of Kind Hearts, Wise Minds and Brave Souls, encouraging our pupils to show empathy, think deeply and approach challenges with courage and determination.

Alongside GRIT, we use the Thrive Approach to support the social and emotional development of every pupil. Thrive is based on an understanding that behaviour communicates underlying needs and that strong, supportive relationships are fundamental to learning and wellbeing. Through Thrive-informed practice across the school, pupils are supported to feel safe, valued and ready to learn, enabling them to flourish both emotionally and academically.

Our Character Curriculum extends beyond the classroom, providing meaningful opportunities for pupils to develop responsibility, teamwork, leadership, resilience and self-belief through a wide range of enrichment experiences. Whether exploring the natural environment through Forest School, achieving personal goals through the Duke of Edinburgh Award, developing employability skills through Industrial Cadets, or participating in community, enterprise and leadership opportunities, pupils are encouraged to challenge themselves, discover their strengths and contribute positively to the world around them.

Through these experiences, we aim to develop confident, resilient young people who are well prepared for their next stage of education, employment, independent living and life within their communities.

GRIT subject sequencing

Thrive - Youtube Video

Thrive