The Stoic Charter 2023-24

|Integritas et Fidelis|
Integrity and Faithfulness

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. The Charter represents what Stoics should strive to be, as individuals upholding the Change Maker ethos. Stoics pledge to aspire to excellence, abide by the School rules, respect all employed at Stowe and each other while contributing constructively to School life by becoming Change Makers. Stoics should work hard, be kind and endeavour to reach their full potential. They should fulfil the maxim of being useful at a dance and invaluable in a shipwreck.

Rights of the Stoics:

Environment

• To live and work in an environment which supports our physical and mental welfare, allowing Stoics to flourish, free from discouragement or unfriendly behaviour.
• 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 pupils 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 dealt with in the appropriate way.
• Freedom of speech should be upheld and Stoics are encouraged to come forward to call out poor behaviour, wrong-doing and abuses of power.
• That all Stoics should feel equally valued as individuals.
• Stoics should have the opportunity to have their views heard on whole School issues by a Senior member of the School Leadership Team.

Education

• Taught by teachers who are well-prepared, enthusiastic, empathetic, punctual and dressed in business attire (business attire should be the norm for teachers in classrooms and the academic area).
• Stoics have the right to learn in a culture which respects them as individuals.
• A sufficient time frame in which to complete work and the right to receive timely and constructive feedback for all completed work.
• Stoics should be recognised for their efforts and be rewarded for good work.
• Receive appropriate levels of pastoral, academic and coaching support in all their pursuits.
• Access to physical, emotional, and spiritual support from both Staff and fellow Stoics
• Stoics have the right to enjoy a well-balanced life at Stowe enabling them to fulfil their potential inside and outside of the classroom.

Responsibilities of the Stoics:

Environment

• Stoics are expected to create a kind and supportive culture in which everyone is encouraged to be themselves, and are celebrated for their individuality.
• 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.
• Stoics are encouraged to challenge prejudice, harassment or discrimination of any kind displayed by any member of the community, to actively eradicate unacceptable behaviours.
• Stoics have a responsibility to look after our unique environment and make a conscious effort to reduce our carbon footprint by recycling, reducing waste and being aware of energy usage.
• Stoics should strive to uphold the Change Maker ethos and to make a lasting and positive impact on their School and society.
• As a community we will strive to create a culture based on kindness where every Stoic feels safe, respected, and celebrated.
• Stoics should be ambitious and mutually supportive. We should recognise and celebrate diversity and differences.
• We aim to be a School of ‘doers’ where everyone recognises the opportunities we have and can be encouraged to make the most of those opportunities in every aspect of School life.
• Stoics should engage in responsible digital citizenship by using technology appropriately and ethically.

Education

• To respect everyone employed by Stowe and Stowe House Preservation Trust volunteers.
• To be punctual, dress in accordance with the Blue Book and be willing to participate.
• To behave in a professional manner and engage in learning allowing all to get the best out of the class.
• To complete all work on time and to a high standard.
• Stoics should voice their opinions through the various councils and give feedback without fear of repercussions.
• Stoics should aim to improve themselves through initiative such as Change Makers and The Stoic Award and by improving themselves, changing others and together changing the world.