Values & Ethos
Northallerton School & Sixth Form College is proud to be part of the Areté Learning Trust. Together, we share one clear aspiration: for every child to be the best they can be. As a school and as a Trust, we are united in our commitment to Striving for Excellence. Our vision, aims, key drivers, and focus on character development provide the foundation for continuous improvement and the highest standards in everything we do.
Our Aims
Excellent academic outcomes:
We provide high-quality qualifications that not only reflect our students’ hard work and potential but also open doors to a wide range of future pathways — empowering them to make informed choices and pursue ambitious goals with confidence.
Development of exceptional character:
We develop the personal qualities that underpin high performance and nurture students to become exceptional individuals — adaptable to change, resilient in the face of challenge, and equipped with the integrity, empathy, and confidence to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
Cultural and global awareness:
We ensure all students leave with a deep understanding of the world around them — awareness shaped by diverse experiences that broaden horizons and encourage empathy, critical thinking, and meaningful engagement with current affairs beyond their immediate environment.
Exceptional opportunities and lifelong memories:
We create unforgettable experiences that inspire and empower. Through rich opportunities in and beyond the classroom, our students build lasting memories, strong relationships, and a sense of belonging — all rooted in trust, care, high expectations, and a shared commitment to making a genuine difference in their lives.
Our Key Drivers
Our Key Drivers are the core principles that guide how we achieve our vision and deliver on our commitment to Strive for Excellence. They shape the way we think, act, and lead — not just as staff, but as a whole school community.
These principles are the foundation of our culture. They define what we stand for and how we move forward together. They challenge us to reflect, improve, and never settle. Because at Northallerton School & Sixth Form College, we believe that good is never good enough — we aim for excellence in everything we do.
Our vision is to deliver exceptional education forged with strong values,where every student is supported to succeed and thrive.
Our Character Values
At Northallerton School & Sixth Form College, character is at the heart of everything we do. These values shape how we learn, how we treat one another, and how we prepare for life beyond school. They are not just words on a poster — they are lived every day through the language we use and the actions we take.
By embedding a common language across staff and students, we create a culture where positive behaviours are consistently reinforced and understood. This shared approach helps every young person develop the integrity, resilience, and empathy needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. Our character values underpin high performance and ensure that success is not only measured by academic outcomes, but by the kind of person each student becomes.
