What is Character Education?

Character education is the process of learning positive attitudes, beliefs and behaviours that are important for people to have as responsible citizens. Education isn't only about learning subjects such as Maths, English, and Science. A more comprehensive definition of education addresses the emotions, personality and character as well.

Parents today are looking for schools that help their kids become healthy, balanced and positive adults. Character education gives our students the necessary tools for creating a better life for themselves and others such as confidence, courage, compassion and critical thinking.

The virtues and traits that are developed through effective character education have never been more important as young people navigate their way through the Covid-19 pandemic. When students learn how to treat themselves and others with respect and integrity, it creates a learning environment in which they feel safe and cared for. When students know school is a nourishing place for them, they are more likely to excel academically and eventually become successful, productive adults.

Why is Character Education so important in schools?

A student who spends hours at school every day learns many lessons that go beyond academics. He or she learns to play, share, socialise, and resolve conflicts. As kids interact with their peers and teachers, they have many opportunities to learn valuable lessons. Character education systematizes these lessons, allowing students to develop a moral compass. Character education is a model that provides students with core values along with academic instruction. This type of education is essential for raising the next generation.

What are the benefits of Character Education?

• A character education program can have a positive impact by encouraging core values like respect, responsibility, and compassion that foster a more caring environment
• Employing a character education curriculum in schools can improve self-discipline and determination,which can then have a positive effect on academic attainment, homework completion and good social behaviour
• Students who participate in a character education curriculum at school learn that they are citizens in a broader community, and learn the value of civic duty beyond their own wants and desires to help make the world a better place.

How do we teach Character Education at DePS?

At DePS our students are encouraged to become:

• Conscious of the right thing to do.
• Committed to doing the right thing.
• Competent in doing the right thing.

This is achieved by the following broad practices followed at our school every day.

• Educators promote core ethical and performance values to instil good character in students.
• Open discussions are held to understand thoughts, emotions, and actions.
• Educators use an intentional, proactive, and comprehensive approach to character development.
• Educators encourage students to develop morally and provide opportunities to foster self-motivation in students.
• Educators and all school staff are part of an ethical learning community and adhere to the same values that they teach.
• We encourage leadership values.
• We engage with parents and other members of the community in character building efforts.
• We regularly assess the school culture and overall success at fostering character development.