Vision and Values
New Mills School Values
At New Mills School, our values of Think Big, Do the Right Thing, and Team Spirit guide everything we do. These principles not only shape our approach to teaching and learning but also define the way we build relationships, develop character, and pursue success for every member of our school community. Here's what each value means for us and how they are embodied by both staff and students:
1. Think Big
At New Mills School, we encourage our students to aim high and embrace the idea that there are no limits to what they can achieve. 'Thinking big' means setting ambitious goals, believing in your potential, and having the courage to challenge yourself. For our staff, it means consistently pushing boundaries to provide the best opportunities for students, always striving for excellence in teaching and learning. We inspire students to think beyond the classroom, nurturing curiosity and creativity so they can become lifelong learners with a passion for achieving their dreams.
As Nelson Mandela famously said, “It always seems impossible until it's done.” We remind our students that with hard work and resilience, even the most challenging goals are within reach.
2. Do the Right Thing
Integrity is at the heart of everything we do at New Mills School. 'Doing the right thing' means making choices that are fair, honest, and respectful, even when it’s not the easiest path. For our students, this value is about taking responsibility for their actions, treating others with kindness and respect, and showing empathy in their daily interactions. For staff, it means leading by example, making decisions that are in the best interest of students, and fostering a culture of trust and accountability.
As the American writer Mark Twain once said, “Do the right thing. It will gratify some people and astonish the rest.” At New Mills, we believe that doing the right thing builds strong character, earns respect, and lays the foundation for success in life.
3. Team Spirit
At New Mills School, 'team spirit' is the glue that holds our community together. We believe that collaboration and mutual support are essential for creating an inclusive environment where everyone can succeed. For students, this means working together, celebrating each other’s successes, and supporting peers through challenges. It also means recognising that everyone’s unique strengths contribute to the team’s overall success. For staff, team spirit involves working collaboratively, sharing best practices, and creating a strong sense of community where everyone feels valued.
As Helen Keller once said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” This perfectly captures the essence of our approach at New Mills School, where we believe that by working together, we achieve far more than we could alone.
In living out these values—Think Big, Do the Right Thing, and Team Spirit—we create a school where every individual feels supported, empowered, and motivated to achieve their best. These principles guide not just what we do, but who we are as a community.