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Bournemouth and Poole College recognises that it has a legal and moral duty to provide a safe and secure environment for its students, staff and visitors.

The college strives to achieve the best possible outcomes, leaving with the appropriate attitudes, coping strategies, skills, knowledge and characters to prepare them for their next steps.

BPC Character

Welcome to the BPC Character Initiative

At Bournemouth and Poole College, we focus on knowledge, behaviours and technical skills to help individuals thrive personally and professionally. Our BPC Character Initiative integrates “character” or “core skills” education into our curriculum, preparing students for the modern workforce and equipping them with essential core skills for success in today's dynamic world.

We have translated the development of capabilities that add educational and core skills values into a consistent language of learning and workforce “character”. 

We call them BPC Characters. There are 8 of them and they are at the heart of everything we do: Creativity, Communication, Curiosity, Resilience, Collaboration, Empathy, Dedication to Learning and Problem-Solving.

Why Character Education Matters

Character education goes beyond achieving qualifications; it is crucial for overcoming challenges and contributing to society. Research shows that character traits are as important as technical skills for career success and life satisfaction.

At BPC, we understand the power of character education. It equips students with the confidence and cultural knowledge to seize opportunities, innovate and lead. By nurturing these qualities, we prepare our learners to succeed in their careers and become responsible citizens and future leaders.

Relevance in Modern Education

Modern education must adapt as industries evolve and workplaces prioritise core skills alongside technical skills. The Confederation of British Industries' focus on employability highlights the demand for a workforce with strong interpersonal skills, creativity and communication abilities. 

Our dedication to character education embodies the principles of lifelong learning. We prepare students to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing economy and society, future-proofing them with essential core skills. 

Building Stronger Communities

Character education is not just about individual success; it is a foundation for building better communities and addressing global challenges. The BPC Character Initiative contributes to a more inclusive and connected society by fostering empathy, ethical engagement and collaboration. These values are essential for addressing pressing global challenges, from climate change to social inequality.

At BPC, we are proud to play a role in shaping a generation of learners who are academically accomplished and equipped with the character to lead, innovate and inspire.

The Big Picture

The Role of Character Education Across Local Economic Sectors

The Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) is an employer-led initiative designed to align post-16 technical education with the skills needs of local industries. It fosters collaboration among employers, education providers and stakeholders to address skills gaps and promote economic growth. 

Investing in character education prepares individuals for lifelong learning and fosters economic and social cohesion. This immediate need for investment underscores its importance.

Our core skills and values characters

This sector values empathy, critical thinking, and communication. Initiatives like the NHS and DWP collaboration in Dorset focus on integrating employability frameworks to ensure readiness for societal needs.

These industries require advanced problem-solving and teamwork. Employers emphasise innovative application of technical knowledge, particularly in marine engineering apprenticeships.

Adaptability and resilience are crucial as the sector adopts sustainable practices. Training facilities in Dorset focus on modern construction methods and real-world problem-solving.

Interpersonal skills and critical thinking are as important as technical expertise. Employers look for graduates who can adapt to new technologies and manage client relationships effectively.

For information on our Local Skills Improvement Plan, please follow this link: Local Skills Improvement Plan - Dorset Chamber

The Role of Character Education in the UK Industrial Strategy

The UK’s Industrial Strategy 2035 emphasises the need for a workforce equipped with both technical expertise and essential character attributes like adaptability, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. 

Aligned with the strategy’s focus on regional strengths and emerging sectors, character education bridges skills gaps, enhances innovation and future-proofs the workforce. Instilling a growth mindset and commitment to lifelong learning equips learners to navigate challenges, drive economic growth, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

For more information on the UK Industrial strategy, follow this link Invest 2035: the UK's modern industrial strategy - GOV.UK