Social Responsibility And Spiritual Issues
School Management > Strategic Plan 2008-2018 > Social Responsibility and Spiritual Issues
With the privileges and advantages that a Tonbridge education brings, there should also be a strong sense of social responsibility. This is encouraged amongst the staff as well as in the boys. Set in a town with numerous schools of all types as near neighbours we are well placed to engage with the local community. Environmental factors are increasingly important and in all its operations the school should act in an environmentally responsible manner.
Tonbridge is an Anglican foundation and the Chapel (the only place where the whole school can meet) lies at the heart of the community. Chapel is ecumenical in practice and welcomes those of other faiths. The school does not limit the promotion of spiritual and moral values to Chapel alone.
- The Community Action Coordinator is overseeing and developing our community links.
- A service to the community scheme should be introduced to involve every boy at some point in their education at Tonbridge.
- A seasonal arts programme is being introduced to replace the Arts Festival and to enhance the overall cultural opportunities for the school and the wider community.
- Teaching and support staff are encouraged to share their expertise with local schools and the wider community as appropriate.
- Sponsorship of the Marsh Academy is a significant commitment in the spirit of social responsibility.
- Commitment to widening access is evidenced by changes in scholarships and the Foundation Award programme. We aim to be able to offer 100% means tested bursaries to 10% of Tonbridgians by 2026.
- A Green Committee comprising boys, teaching and support staff has been established to promote environmental awareness, and to work alongside the SMT to implement the school's environmental policies.
- An Assistant Chaplain has been appointed to strengthen the work of the Chaplaincy.
- The exploration of and exposure to other belief systems is to be encouraged in Chapel, in the PSHE and seminar programmes and elsewhere.
- Cross-curricular opportunities to explore spiritual and moral issues are sought.