Character Development: Hope, Aspiration and Courageous Advocacy 

How we live out this in our school – a celebration of excellence

As a school family we believe we must always contribute positively to our community, bringing hope and living out the command ‘Do Everything in Love’ found in 1 Corinthians 16:14. During the pandemic in particular, there were many examples of social action when children were inspired to reach out to show God’s love and inspire hope during difficult times. The children led a ‘Hearts for Hugs’ campaign which involved creating positive messages of hope and love to give to members of our community as a ‘hug’. 

How we achieved this

The children created beautiful origami and painted ‘hearts’ with uplifting pictures, kind messages and favourite Bible verses which were shared with individual members of our community who were experiencing challenges and hardships. These were also shared with local hospitals and nursing homes with a connection to our school family. This was led by the children’s desire to share God’s love and to bring hope even in the darkest of times. We were pleased to share the school’s work as part of a community campaign highlighted by Radio Solent and featured on the breakfast show.

The difference that it makes

The children were motivated to share their worries and fears and in a negative situation to think positively about ways that we could bring hope and love to others. We want the children to always know that whoever we are, whatever age we may be, whatever our gifts and strengths we are all capable of making a positive difference to others. The children were motivated by the positive feedback they received and recognised that their actions had an impact. 

‘We know that even in dark times we can share God’s love and bring light and a hug to people who need it.’ Year 4 pupil

‘Even if we don’t know the people who read our ‘hearts for hugs’, we know that God loves them and will help them.’ Year 2 pupil

‘I wanted to say a big thank you to the children for taking the time to make cards and send hugs. My team in critical care have been going in and out of ICU trialling medicines with the sickest patients in the hospital and this was just the tonic to make us smile. Mine in particular was a real joy as we share a name! So hope you can pass on our gratitude to the children and let them know how much they cheered us up.’ Research Nurse, Critical Care, SGH