The school is committed to a set of values that have been handed down over the years. They are integral to the notion that education is a nourishing mother (alma mater). The joy of living in particular, reminds us that school is not simply a preparation for the next stage of life, it is life, and it should be lived joyfully.
The Santiago College Profile combines these traditional values with the attributes of an internationally-minded individual, as prescribed by the International Baccalaureate. This profile is used to promote intercultural learning and high-quality teaching. It helps the school to develop global citizenship as defined by the Council of International Schools.
Values
Values are the moral principles that give meaning to the decisions and behavior that the school experts from all its members.
Joy of Living – We are capable of enjoying different moments in life, and we engage joyfully with individuals and communities. We strive to develop positive attitudes and we are kind to ourselves. We sustain a good sense of humour and a hopeful, optimistic outlook.
Resilient – We persevere with a task, and we are capable of acknowledging disappointment and adapting when we are not successful straight away. We strive to achieve the best possible outcomes and try to support each other. We welcome the learning opportunities provided by difficulties and challenges.
Inquirers – We nurture our curiosity, developing skills for inquiry and research. We know how to learn independently and with others. We learn with enthusiasm and sustain our love of learning throughout life.
Knowledgeable – We develop and use conceptual understanding, exploring knowledge across a range of disciplines. We engage with issues and ideas that have local and global significance.
Thinkers – We use critical and creative thinking skills to analyse and take responsible action on complex problems. We exercise initiative in making reasoned, ethical decisions.
Communicators – We express ourselves confidently and creatively in more than one language and in many ways. We collaborate effectively, listening carefully to the perspectives of other individuals and groups.
Principled – We act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice, and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere. We take responsibility for our actions and their consequences.
Open Minded – We critically appreciate our own cultures and personal histories, as well as the values and traditions of others. We seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and we are willing to grow from the experience.
Caring – We show empathy, compassion and respect. We have a commitment to service, and we act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the world around us.
Courageous – We approach uncertainty with forethought and determination; we work independently and cooperatively to explore new ideas and innovative strategies. We are resourceful and resilient in the face of challenges and change.
Balanced – We understand the importance of balancing different aspects of our lives – intellectual, physical, and emotional-spiritual – to achieve well-being for ourselves and others. We recognise our interdependence with other people and with the world in which we live.
Reflective – We thoughtfully consider the world and our own ideas and experience. We work to understand our strengths and weaknesses in order to support our learning and personal development.