What do we mean by character? Are we just born the way we're born - or might our habits of thinking and behaviour be affected (maybe more than we'd realized) by our environment and day-to-day experience? Could it be possible to do more to help young people develop those personal and intellectual attributes increasingly flagged up as contributing to success and wellbeing at school and beyond? - - - - - - This pocketbook answers these questions and many more, drawing together a huge amount of educational, psychological and neuroscientific research into practical, pithy, classroom-friendly advice. It explores qualities such as curiosity, initiative, good judgement, persistence, focus, originality and flexibility of mind - with a chapter each for grit and resilience, dispositions often near the top of teachers' wish lists for their students. - - - - - - A message throughout is that fostering the development of character in no way contradicts a school's aims of maximizing achievement and encouraging deep, effective learning. The focus is always on realistic, manageable approaches that combine naturally with existing school practices and curriculum goals.-
- - - - - Cartoons, diagrams and other visually attractive presentational devices support the text and cement meaning. Real-life examples are used to demonstrate actions and outcomes. - - - - - - C J Simister (National Association of Gifted Children's 'Inspiring Person of the Year', 2011) has almost 20 years' teaching experience. She regularly speaks at international conferences and works with schools around the world, advising on helping young people to develop the intellectual qualities and skills needed to thrive and succeed in school and beyond.