The Stoic Charter

Dux non dictator
To guide, not to rule

This Charter has been compiled by the Prefect team in consultation with Stoics. The document represents their wish to be considered as equal members of a community in which their rights are upheld and respected. In return, Stoics pledge to aspire to excellence, abide by school rules, respect the rights of teachers and to contribute constructively to school life by becoming Change Makers, and supporting initiatives such as Change 100

Support:

Our rights are:

  • To receive appropriate levels of pastoral, academic and coaching support.
  • To receive emotional, spiritual and medical support.
  • To enjoy a well-balanced life at Stowe enabling us to fulfil our potential both inside and outside the classroom.

Our responsibilities are:

  • Stoics are expected to treat each other and teachers with respect and kindness as well as support each other in their day-to-day lives.

Teaching:

Our rights are:

  • To be taught by teachers who are knowledgeable, well-prepared, punctual, dressed in business attire, enthusiastic and empathetic.
  • To learn in an environment which respects us as individuals.
  • To have a sufficient timeframe in which to complete work and the right to receive timely and constructive feedback for all completed work.
  • To be recognised for our efforts and to be rewarded for good work.

Our responsibilities are:

  • Stoics are expected to respect any member of staff both inside and outside the classroom.
  • Stoics are expected to be punctual, dressed according to School uniform regulations and show willingness to participate.
  • Stoics are expected to behave in a professional manner and embrace all the learning opportunities afforded to them.
  • Stoics are expected to complete all their work on time and to the best of their ability.

Opportunities:

Our rights are:

  • To be granted equality of opportunity, even though equality of outcome is not guaranteed.
  • To be given the opportunity to have our views heard on whole school issues by a senior member of the School leadership team.

 Our responsibilities are:

  • Stoics should voice their opinions through the various councils and give feedback without fear of recrimination or repercussion.
  • Stoics should aim to improve themselves through initiatives such as the Stoic Award and by modelling the culture of continuous improvement so that they change themselves, change others and together change the world.

Inclusion:

Our rights are:

  • That there should be no barriers to participation in any aspect of school life.
  • That no one should be discriminated against on grounds of gender, race, age, sexuality, religious beliefs, or aptitude and those with these characteristics should be afforded the same respect as any other member of our Community. 
  • Breaches of the School’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion policies should be thoroughly investigated and acted on.
  • Freedom of speech should be upheld.

Our responsibilities are:

  • Stoics should support and respect the School’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and uphold freedom of speech.
  • Stoics have a responsibility to inform a member of staff when matters of health and safety arise that require further intervention.

Community:

Our rights are:

  • To live and work in an environment which supports our physical and mental welfare, allowing Stoics to flourish, free from discouragement or unfriendly behaviour.

Our responsibilities are:

  • Stoics have a responsibility to respect and improve this unique environment and make a conscious effort to reduce waste and minimise our carbon footprint.
  • Stoics should strive to uphold the Change Maker ethos and to make a lasting and positive impact on their school and society.