At Saint Martin’s, we believe that just high academic outcomes (And ours are really good!) are not good enough. If pupils are to become successful adults, they need to develop the character that will enable them to be really successful. For thousands of years, the virtues have been the habits that the most impressive people have developed.

The classic virtues—prudence, fortitude, justice, and temperance—are essential for pupils to learn in school because they build strong character and responsible citizenship. Prudence fosters critical thinking and good decision-making, helping students navigate life’s challenges. Fortitude or courage encourages them to stand up for their beliefs and face adversity with resilience. Justice instils fairness and respect for others, promoting a sense of community and ethical responsibility. Temperance teaches self-discipline and balance, crucial for personal and academic success. By learning these virtues, pupils develop integrity, empathy, and perseverance—qualities that not only shape their own futures but also benefit society as a whole. We try to instil these and other virtues in the hearts and minds of our pupils in order for them to become really successful adults.