Vision and Values

'Better Never Stops': Community, Kindness, Respect and Excellence

As a community of learners, we have the highest expectations of every individual at Penn 
Wood in all we do. We believe that relationships are central to this, based on the value of 
each person and what they bring to our school. We recognise everybody's personal, social 
and learning capacities and aim to lead, assist and encourage each and every person to 
meet their potential and look for possibilities to ensure all achieve their very best. Staff have the highest expectations for the learning and behaviour of all children and for their own professionalism. The Board of Governors work closely with leaders and staff to steer the school and to realise the Penn Wood vision: 'Better Never Stops'. 

Our core values of Community, Kindness, Respect and Excellence are reflected in the strong sense of belonging which includes everyone at Penn Wood and complement the
fundamental British Values of Democracy, the Rule of Law, Individual Liberty and Mutual 
Respect and Tolerance for those with Different Beliefs.

We aim to create a cohesive, harmonious and inclusive community, where difference and 
diversity are recognised and valued and where we work together to achieve the very best. 
We recognise the importance of kindness towards others, including those we might never 
meet, as well as self-kindness and care so that we each play our part in making the world a better place. We foster a deep sense of respect - of self, towards those around us and in 
response to the precious world we live in, promoting the very strongest sense of purpose, 
strength of character and development of every one of us to be the best we can be. Finally, we strive for excellence in all we do, always reflecting, always learning and always seeking enhancement.

Our school environment provides great opportunity for reflection, thoughtfulness and a 
chance to connect; it provides a range of places for learning and play and development of 
ideas, cooperation with others and the chance to exist alongside nature. Our central 
courtyard is home to the 'Tree of Life', a magnificent symbol of growth at the heart of our 
school. It stands firm over us and grows strongly from deep foundations. Like our children, 
the tree started as a tiny seed and flourished, becoming deeply rooted in and connected to our community. The tree, also a welcoming home to wildlife, reminds us that we grow 
together from strong roots, branch out with the support of each other and gain wings to fly. 

Together, as children, families, staff and governors, we will realise our vision:
‘Better Never Stops’: Community, Kindness, Respect and Excellence