Kindness is a powerful solution to some of schools’ and society’s biggest challenges. And this week, SPARK Rynfield scholars celebrated their school’s kindness by paying it forward and promoting kind behaviours. The scholars added a touch of green to their uniforms this week and wrote kindness cards to their shoulder partners. Every day, scholars repeat the SPARK Schools Creed, a daily promise that summarises core values and reminds them that they are SPARK Scholars at all times.  SPARK teachers discuss these core values with scholars throughout the school day and work with families to implement them at home.

These are the five core values that make up the acronym SPARK:

• Service: SPARK Scholars are active citizens in their classrooms, communities, and country. They dedicate time and effort to serving those in need and approach challenges with a team mindset.
• Persistence: SPARK Scholars never give up. They relentlessly pursue their academic and personal goals, tackling problems with an optimistic attitude and determination.
• Achievement: SPARK Scholars accomplish their academic goals, putting them on a trajectory toward university and successful careers. They are intellectually curious and have a genuine love of learning.
• Responsibility: SPARK Scholars demonstrate self-control and are accountable for their actions. They pay attention, follow directions, complete assignments, and seek to understand how their actions impact others.
• Kindness: SPARK Scholars treat themselves and others with respect and dignity. They are generous and value their relationships with peers and teachers alike.

Nkazimulo Moyoy-Zitha, Head of School Achievement said, “values, in general, contribute to who we are, how we conduct ourselves and how we interact with other individuals. This is also a reminder to our scholars that it is also essential to build their character as they develop in their academic journey.”

Kindness is essential to nurturing SPARK Schools scholars who will shape a better future in society and school values play an integral role in building a strong school culture where scholars respect and value others.