B.R.I.G.H.T.

Belief. Resilience. Independence. Grace. Helpfulness. Tenacity.

Four Swannes has developed into a school that has an exceptionally rich mix of cultures that we can all be proud of. As a headteacher that embraces our diverse environment, it was equally important that our ‘strap line’ was reflective of this. After consultation with Senior Leaders and members of the governing body, it was unanimously agreed that the three words that clearly summarise our wonderful school are: Diversity. Inclusion. Belonging.

As powerful as these terms are, I felt that there was a need to go further – what values do the children of Four Swannes need to enrich who they are? How can we support their development with a set of values that will help to define them as positive members of the community, both now and for the future? Considered time and thought went into identifying values that were agreed to be strong characteristics for any individual and ideas were discussed and shared between Senior Leaders and governors. After some debate, it was unanimously decided that our acronym would be B.R.I.G.H.T. – Belief. Resilience. Independence. Grace. Helpfulness. Tenacity. These will be the values that are celebrated throughout the school in all aspects of school life. If each of the children, after their time at Four Swannes, left with our BRIGHT values as part of who they are, then we will have been successful in helping to shape well rounded and positive members of the community.  

It will take some time for us to embed these values but you will see evidence starting to shine through from the autumn/spring term 2024-25. Displays in the school with support the values for that visual support that both staff and children need. Assemblies will have the values as a focus and children will be encouraged to discuss these in relation to school life as a whole. There have already been a number of subtle changes in our website, and more is planned. Change takes time but I hope that our community will begin to see and benefit from these values in the coming months.