CHARACTER MATTERS...

Over the last forty years, working at all levels in education and business, I have learnt the hard way that knowledge rarely changes people's behaviour or their lives. Despite convincing evidence, it's interesting that so many people won't listen... they won't stop smoking, they won't stop drinking, they won't lose weight, they won't exercise, they won't drive slower, they won't put down their phones when they are driving and they won't change the habits of a lifetime!

There are so many things that research and experience tells us we should do, but sadly we don't change our behaviour. Having read so much research I am now convinced that the answer lies in developing character... we need self-discipline and grit to thrive and succeed and to do the right things. Developing personal characteristics like responsibility, confidence, persistence, determination and hard work leads to school and career success. So we must develop schemes where we coach, nurture and place these things at the heart of everything we are doing with our children and young people... and the arts and sport are good places to start!