Oakway Academy knows that ‘Cultural capital’ is the essential knowledge that pupils need to be educated citizens, introducing them to the best that has been thought and said and helping to engender an appreciation of human creativity and achievement.’
What is Cultural Capital?
Every child and family who joins our setting will have their own knowledge and experiences that will link to their culture and wider family. This might include: languages, beliefs, traditions, cultural and family heritage, interests, travel and work.
Research shows that when children and families’ cultures are valued, both the child’s experience of learning and progress can benefit (Husain et al., 2018, p. 4 and Gazzard, E. 2018 in Chalmers, H. and Crisfield, E. 2019)
Cultural capital is the accumulation of knowledge, behaviours, and skills that a child can draw upon and which demonstrates their cultural awareness, knowledge and competence; it is one of the key ingredients a pupil will draw upon to be successful in society, their career and the world of work.
Cultural capital gives power. It helps children achieve goals, become successful, and rise up the social ladder without necessarily having wealth or financial capital. Cultural capital is having assets that give children the desire to aspire and achieve social mobility whatever their starting point.
How do we promote and enhance the cultural capital of our children?
At Oakway Academy children have access to a broad and balanced curriculum designed to build on prior learning whilst also instilling high aspirations in all of our pupils. We want to encourage pupils to become resilient, life-long learners who embrace challenges. We enable our students to become well-rounded, conscientious citizens of our school community and the wider community around them. Children have the opportunity to take part in a range of activities, experiences and visits that not only link to the curriculum but also immerse them in the culture around them. These can include trips to the local park, visits to places of worship, competing in sports events or learning to play a musical instrument.
Our character passports have been created in line with the DfE guidance about character education and development. Every child has their own passport and the opportunity to have as many experiences as possible. We understand that as a school, we have an important role in the fostering of good mental wellbeing among young people so that they can fulfil their potential at school and are well prepared for adult life. We understand that we have a responsibility to help form well-educated and well-rounded young individuals ready to take their place in the world.
Oakway Academy Character Passport