by Kirsty Keep, Francesca Milling and Matt Thomas
Heads of the Lancing College Preparatory Schools – Lancing Preps Hove & Worthing and Dorset House
Why character matters as much as curriculum
In an age where academic achievement often takes centre stage, it’s easy to overlook the quieter, yet equally vital, aspects of a child’s development. Prep schools are increasingly recognising that success in life is not measured solely by exam results, but by the strength of a child’s character, how they treat others, how they respond to challenges and how they understand themselves.
Character education is not a new concept, but it has taken on renewed importance in recent years. Schools are placing greater emphasis on nurturing values such as kindness, empathy, resilience and integrity. These qualities are not taught in isolation but are embedded in the daily life of most schools – through assemblies, classroom discussions, peer interactions and the way staff model behaviour.
Children thrive in environments where they feel safe, respected and heard. When schools create a culture that values emotional intelligence as much as academic performance, children are more likely to take risks, express themselves and develop a genuine love of learning. They become more confident, more compassionate and better equipped to navigate the complexities of growing up.
One of the most powerful tools in this approach is the development of emotional literacy. Helping children to recognise and regulate their emotions from an early age builds a foundation for lifelong wellbeing. It also fosters empathy. When children understand their own feelings, they are better able to understand the feelings of others.
This is particularly important in the early years, when children are still learning how to navigate social situations and build relationships. Encouraging children to talk about their emotions, reflect on their behaviour and understand the impact of their actions helps them to develop a strong sense of self and a deeper connection to those around them.
Schools that focus on both character education alongside academic achievement often adopt proactive strategies to support emotional development. These may include mindfulness activities, peer mentoring and structured programmes that teach self-regulation and resilience. Such initiatives not only help children manage their emotions but also empower them to ask for help when they need it.
Importantly, this approach to education doesn’t mean lowering academic standards. On the contrary, children who feel emotionally supported are more likely to engage deeply with their learning. They are more resilient in the face of setbacks and more motivated to achieve their personal best. When children are taught to value effort, kindness and curiosity, they become learners who are not only capable but also courageous.
Educating the whole child means recognising that every child is unique, with their own strengths, challenges and potential. It means creating a school environment where values are lived, not just taught. It means preparing children not just for the next stage of their education, but for life.
In a world that is constantly changing, the ability to adapt, empathise and lead with integrity is more important than ever. By placing character at the heart of education, prep schools are helping to shape a generation of young people who will not only succeed academically but also contribute positively to their communities in the future.
The Lancing College family includes its two Prep Schools located in Hove and Worthing, Dorset House School in Pulborough and Little Lancing Day Nursery & Forest School.
www.lancingcollege.co.uk, www.lancingprephove.co.uk, www.lancingprepworthing.co.uk, www.dorsethouseschool.com, www.littlelancing.co.uk
