---
title: "Character Development"
url: "https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/character-development"
school: "St. Anthony's Girls' Catholic Academy"
---

# Character Development

At our school, developing character is at the heart of our vision for helping every student grow into a confident, compassionate and responsible young adult. We believe that academic success and personal development go hand in hand. Through a carefully designed character education programme, we support students from Year 7 to Year 13 in building the values, behaviours and attributes that will help them thrive both in school and beyond.

---

### Our Character Framework

We deliver character education through two age-appropriate initiatives:

- SHINE for students in Years 7–11
- CLIMB for students in Years 12–13

Each initiative focuses on a set of values that guide students in how they learn, interact, lead and contribute to their community.

---

### SHINE (Years 7–11)

SHINE introduces students to five core attributes:

- **Selfless**: Putting others first, showing kindness, and contributing positively to the school and wider community.
- **Honesty**: Acting with integrity, taking responsibility for actions and being truthful in all situations.
- **Inclusive**: Respecting and celebrating differences, ensuring everyone feels valued and welcome.
- **Notice**: Being aware of the world around us: showing curiosity, mindfulness, and engagement in learning.
- **Embrace**: Having the courage to try new things, embrace challenges and respond positively to change.

![](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/images/SHINE.png)

SHINE encourages students to build strong habits that will help them develop into thoughtful, resilient young people.

---

### CLIMB (Years 12–13)

As students enter the Sixth Form, our CLIMB programme builds on earlier development and prepares them for adult life.

**Challenge**: Pushing boundaries, embracing academic rigor, and striving for excellence.

**Leadership**: Taking initiative, acting as role models, and making a positive impact through service and responsibility.

**Integrity**: Making principled decisions and demonstrating reliability, honesty and moral courage.

**Motivation**: Setting goals, working with determination, and showing commitment to long-term success.

**Belong**: Building strong relationships, contributing to a supportive Sixth Form community, and developing a sense of identity.

![](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/images/CLIMB.png)

CLIMB supports older students in preparing for university, apprenticeships or the workplace by focusing on independence, responsibility and contribution.

---

### How We Promote Character Education

Character development happens in every part of school life. We embed SHINE and CLIMB through:

- Curriculum learning and classroom routines
- Tutor activities and assemblies
- Extracurricular clubs, sports and creative opportunities
- Leadership roles such as council members, ambassadors and mentors
- Community service and volunteering opportunities
- Celebration events recognising students who exemplify SHINE and CLIMB values

---

### Why Character Matters

We believe that character education:

- Supports wellbeing and resilience
- Strengthens relationships and behaviour
- Enhances academic progress
- Prepares students for life beyond school
- Builds a positive, inclusive school culture for all

By nurturing character, we empower every student to shine today and climb to their future potential.

### Pupil &amp; Parent Information

- [Pupil &amp; Parent Information](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information)
- [Academic Support](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/academic-support)
- [British Values and Protected Characteristics](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/british-values-and-protected-characteristics)
- [Character Development](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/character-development)
- [Enrichment](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/enrichment)
- [Events &amp; What's On](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/events-and-whats-on)
- [Health and Wellbeing](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/health-and-wellbeing)
- [Newsletters](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/newsletters)
- [Online Safety](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/online-safety)
- [School Meals](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/school-meals)
- [School Uniform](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/school-uniform)
- [Term Dates](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/term-dates)
- [Year 6/7 Transition](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/year-6-7-transistion)
- [Y11 Information](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/pupil-parent-information/y11-information)

   ![St. Anthony's Girls' Catholic Academy](https://files.schudio.com/st-anthony-s-girls-catholic-academy-2/images/logo/logo-footer-with-diocese-02(2).png)

### St. Anthony's Girls' Catholic Academy

 Thornhill Terrace
Sunderland
SR2 7JN

 0191 565 8904
 <enquiries@staga.co.uk>

### Trust Information

- [Website Terms](https://bccet.org.uk/website-terms/)
- [Accessibility Statement](https://bccet.org.uk/accessibility-statement/)
- [Privacy Notice](https://bccet.org.uk/privacy-policy/)

### Social Media

- [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/StAnthonysGirlsCatholicAcademy/)
- [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/stanthsgirls/)

 © Copyright 2025–2026 St. Anthony's Girls' Catholic Academy

 School &amp; Trust Websites by [ ![Schudio logo](https://st-anthonys-academy.com/img/logo/light.png) ](https://www.schudio.com/)
