In This Section
Our Ethos
Our Values – CHANGE at Marie Weller
At Marie Weller Primary School, we believe that education should inspire, include and make a lasting difference. We aim to create a purposeful, caring and lively school where high expectations, a broad curriculum, excellent facilities and a wide range of opportunities come together to give children the knowledge, character and confidence they need to thrive.
We want every child to leave Marie Weller with strong foundations and joyful memories. Memories of learning that made them laugh, of friendships built through kindness, and of challenges faced with growing independence and pride.
Our values are rooted in the story of Marie Louise Weller, a local suffragette who stood for fairness, community and courage. They are more than just words – they guide our work every day and are visible in how we speak, act and learn together.
They also bring our strapline, Inspiring Progress Together, to life – reminding us that learning is about small steps forward, shared effort, and a sense of belonging that lifts everyone.
The Values of Marie Weller Primary School
The six core values of our school spell out the word CHANGE:
- Courage
- Honesty
- Ambition
- Nurture
- Generosity
- Equality
Together, these values shape who we are, what we expect, and how we grow.
Courage
Courage in learning
Children are encouraged to try new things, ask questions and keep going when something feels challenging.
Courage in relationships
We support one another to speak up kindly and to stand by what is right, even when it takes bravery to do so.
Courage in ourselves
Every child is taught that mistakes are part of learning, and that it takes courage to grow.
Honesty
Honesty in communication
We promote a school culture built on openness and trust. We speak truthfully and listen with respect.
Honesty in reflection
Children are supported to take ownership of their choices and understand how to learn from them.
Honesty in relationships
We value truthfulness, even when it takes effort, because it builds stronger connections between children and adults.
Ambition
Ambition for ourselves
We want every child to believe they can succeed. We set goals, take pride in effort and notice progress.
Ambition in learning
Our curriculum is broad, challenging and purposeful. We help children to think deeply and aim high.
Ambition for the future
Children leave Marie Weller ready to contribute, ready to continue learning and ready to lead.
Nurture
Nurture in relationships
Every child is known. We take time to listen and build the trust that helps children feel secure.
Nurture in learning
We create calm, well-ordered spaces where children feel safe to explore and where wellbeing is prioritised.
Nurture across school life
We care about how children feel, not just what they achieve. Warmth, kindness and understanding are central to our approach.
Generosity
Generosity in actions
Children are taught to give their time, support and encouragement freely.
Generosity in spirit
We celebrate each other’s successes and lift one another up during challenges.
Generosity in our community
We look outward, take part in wider causes and help children understand their role in supporting others.
Equality
Equality in opportunity
Every child is supported to succeed, no matter their background or starting point.
Equality in voice
We listen to every child and help them believe their voice matters.
Equality in practice
Fairness is part of daily life. We remove barriers, adapt when needed and treat everyone with respect.
These values are not abstract. They are lived, modelled and returned to daily in assemblies, lessons, play and conversation. They shape the way we think, speak and behave – and prepare our children for life beyond primary school.
At Marie Weller, Inspiring Progress Together is more than a strapline. It reflects the way we live our values, support each other and grow as a community.