Uniquely Yarrells - Ethos, Values and Mission
History and Context
A country school nestled on the edge of Poole Harbour, Yarrells is uniquely independent. The Covell family took over what was then St Monica’s in 1992, with a vision of creating a friendly, inclusive school that placed every child’s needs at its very heart. The school continues to be independently run by the family, with the support of an Advisory Governing Body.
Our school environment motivates our pupils to love learning, encourage confidence and prepare children for the world beyond them. Fully co-educational, from our youngest in Nursery to our oldest in Year 6, we are specialists in this most-important phase of education, where social, emotional and academic leaps are made, and meaningful and lasting attitudes to learning forged.
Our location is an important part of our identify and is central to our nurturing, educational mission. From our Forest School, kitchen garden and guinea pigs, to the manor house where children have their lessons, the Yarrells experience is a rare and magical one.
Ethos
At Yarrells we believe that education should inspire, nurture, and empower. Our school environment motivates pupils to develop a lifelong love of learning, encourages confidence, and prepares them for the ever-changing world ahead. Within our beautiful location, we pride ourselves on the fact the Yarrells experience is a rare and magical one; parents regularly tell us that we’re a ‘giant hug of a school’, a reflection of the warmth, care and joy that define our community.
Values
Our School Values are vital to our community and guide us in all we do. They are embedded into School culture, playing a vital role in equipping our pupils with the skills and experiences they will need to help them succeed in life at School and beyond. They shape who we are, what we do and how we do it. Our values are meaningful and help our pupils to thrive as happy individuals.
Creativity & Curiosity
We explore, use our imaginations and are inventive.
We have enquiring, innovative minds and a love of learning.
Ambition & Excellence
We have high expectations and are determined to achieve our goals.
We strive to achieve excellence in our endeavours, finding opportunities to shine, celebrate and find our talents.
Community & Kindness
We are inclusive, compassionate and respectful, looking after each other and our wider local and global communities.
We encourage and celebrate without discrimination or judgement; we are tolerant and kind in all that we do.
Resilience & Determination
We have the capacity to embrace adversity, develop a growth mindset and learn from challenges.
We are inspired to feel confident and driven to succeed
Our Mission
At Yarrells, we are committed to giving every child the brightest of beginnings, fostering a love for learning, and embracing every opportunity to shine. We empower our pupils to achieve with joy, nurturing their confidence, creativity, and curiosity. Our goal is to help every child thrive, equipping them with the skills and values they need to be successful in their chosen futures and to make a meaningful, positive impact on the world.
Uniquely Yarrells Pupils – Our Vision
1. Character:
Pupils are happy, kind individuals who demonstrate integrity and strength of character. They are varied in their interests, both in and out of school. They flourish at school and in their senior schools, both socially and academically. They can balance their own wellbeing whilst always being kind to others. Each pupil is known individually and can be themselves.
2. Learning:
Pupils embrace the journey of learning and developing their skills, following a truly independent curriculum, exploring various learning styles, methods and technologies, and progressing through the Yarrells Skills Grid. They are motivated, reflective thinkers, showing resilience and a positive, successful mindset.
3. Community and Environment:
Pupils collaborate well with others and are community oriented. They are actively charitable, using their skills and talents for the benefit of others. They have positive attitudes towards the environment, sustainability and conflict resolution, coupled with a global outlook based on consideration, tolerance and respect.
