Developing Life Skills Through Our Values

At Steephill, we believe in preparing children for life beyond school. Everything we do is guided by our core values — KIND: Kindness, Knowledge, Inclusivity, Nurture, and Determination. These values underpin our teaching, relationships, and the way we celebrate success every day.

Leadership and Character

Leadership is one of the key life skills we nurture at Steephill. It empowers children to grow in confidence, make thoughtful decisions, and act as positive role models for others. True leadership is about behaviour that inspires; showing respect, empathy, and determination in all that we do.

From the moment children join us in Early Years, they begin developing these qualities through assemblies, circle time, Forest School, classroom monitor duties, and everyday opportunities to take responsibility. Step by step, they learn how to lead with kindness, encourage others, and contribute to their community.

This journey reaches its peak in Year 6, when every pupil takes on an Ambassador Role — representing the school, supporting younger pupils, and modelling the values that make Steephill special.

Responsibility and Respect

As pupils move through the school, they are encouraged to take ownership of their actions and choices. Our Code of Conduct — Be Ready, Be Safe, Be Respectful — can be seen and felt everywhere in school. It shapes the calm, purposeful atmosphere where children are proud of who they are and motivated to be their very best.

Class 6 Legacies

At Steephill School, we believe in the power of legacy. Each year, we challenge our Year 6 pupils to leave behind something meaningful -  an initiative that will continue to benefit the school community long after they have moved on.

Past legacies have included an outdoor reading nook, the introduction of the Daily Mile, our calming Tranquil Tuesday lunchtime club, a termly pupil-led newsletter, Eco Awards, and the creation of child-led activities at playtime. These projects are more than just ideas; they’re lasting contributions that enrich school life and inspire younger pupils.

This opportunity to lead and take responsibility is a powerful way for our oldest children to reflect on their journey at Steephill. It not only fosters creativity, teamwork, and ownership, but also reinforces the values we promote of kindness, curiosity, resilience, and respect, all crucial for the transition into secondary school.

By encouraging our pupils to think beyond themselves, we help them recognise the impact they can have on others, a lesson that will stay with them well into the future.

Leadership and Team-work skills are nurtured every day in school, in extra-curricular clubs, through the curriculum and at play times. Opportunities in drama, sports and the arts support development. In Years 5 and 6 the children also go on a week-long residential course which is specifically designed to further enhance leadership skills and understanding.

As part of this programme, Steephill has a School Community Team which enables all children to have a 'pupil voice'

Residential Trips

One of the most important life skills is learning how to be a positive, supportive team member. At Steephill, this is brought to life through our Year 5 and 6 residential trips.

These week-long trips give children the opportunity to develop independence, responsibility, and resilience in a safe, caring, and fun environment. Away from school, pupils put our KIND values — Kindness, Knowledge, Inclusivity, Nurture, and Determination — into practice, supporting one another, working as a team, and celebrating each other’s achievements.

By the end of the week, the children have not only experienced adventure and new challenges but also demonstrated the confidence, leadership, and teamwork that are the hallmark of life at Steephill.