For this week's View from the Top, the head of Finborough School explores the value of character education and explains why schools have a responsibility to equip their pupils with so much more than just academic knowledge...
In today’s complex and fast-moving world, education must do far more than prepare young people for examinations. Knowledge and technical skill are important, but they are not enough. The true measure of an education lies in the strength of character it inspires. Schools have both the privilege and the responsibility to help children and young adults develop the values, attitudes, and habits that will shape not only their own futures but also the societies they will one day lead.
Character education is not a peripheral concern — it is central to a school’s purpose. A strong school culture, built on shared values and consistent expectations, provides the foundation upon which character grows. Every aspect of school life — lessons, co-curricular activities, relationships, and traditions — should consciously reinforce the qualities we seek to nurture: integrity, perseverance, empathy, and responsibility. When these virtues are celebrated daily, they become part of the lived experience of every student.
An explicit focus on character development ensures that it is not left to chance. Programmes that deliberately teach and model positive habits equip young people to make wise choices and to lead with compassion and purpose. At Finborough School, this is exemplified by the adoption of The Seven Habits — timeless principles of personal effectiveness drawn from Stephen Covey’s renowned framework. The habits, from being proactive to seeking synergy and sharpening the saw, empower students to take ownership of their actions, collaborate effectively, and strive for continuous self-improvement. They provide a language and structure for ethical decision-making and balanced living.
Character also lies at the heart of effective learning. Qualities such as curiosity, resilience, focus, and self-discipline directly influence how well students learn and achieve. Recognising this, Finborough School has developed the Learnability Framework — a pioneering approach that links character to the habits of best learning. Learnability encourages pupils to understand themselves as learners, to set ambitious goals, manage distractions, and persevere through challenge. It teaches that effort, reflection, and responsibility are the true engines of progress.
This connection between character and learning is transformative. When students understand that who they are shapes how they learn, education becomes a journey of self-development rather than mere academic attainment. They begin to value growth over grades, effort over ease, and contribution over competition. In doing so, they become both better learners and better people.
Ultimately, schools that embed character education into their culture are preparing young people not only for success but for significance. They are nurturing citizens who act with integrity, show empathy, and have the courage to do what is right. In cultivating character, schools cultivate hope — for individuals, communities, and the world beyond.
At Finborough, the fusion of The Seven Habits, a rich school culture, and the Learnability Framework offers a powerful example of how character education can elevate both learning and life. For children and young adults, there is no greater gift.