Character Education – The Sought Approach and Enrichment

One of the defining strengths of the Character Education Program at Bacchus Marsh Grammar is the “Caught, Taught and Sought” approach that underpins the development of student character across the school. This approach has resulted in students from Prep to Year 12 becoming virtue literate and developing a deep understanding of our school values.

Character education within the curriculum will continue to be a key focus in 2026. In the Junior School, students learn about and reinforce character through structured journal activities. In the Middle School, a new Character and Virtues Program is being piloted and researched in Year 6, complementing the already established curriculum. In the Senior School, students continue their development through the Inspire Program.

The introduction of the Enrichment Program further highlights the third dimension of the school’s Character Education model: Character Sought. This initiative provides students with the opportunity to pursue areas of personal interest through a diverse range of enrichment activities. In doing so, students are encouraged to identify and reflect upon the virtuous behaviours associated with their chosen pursuits, fostering ongoing growth throughout the year.

Students have enthusiastically engaged in a wide variety of activities ranging from knitting jumpers for penguins, participating in the Strength and Conditioning Club, cooking for the community, contributing to the Debating Club, and many more. Importantly, these clubs and activities reflect the four pillars of virtue that underpin our school values:

• Civic Virtues
• Performance Virtues
• Intellectual Virtues
• Moral Virtues

The Enrichment Program ensures that students are able to explore their passions while developing into well-rounded young people of strong character. At Bacchus Marsh Grammar, we intentionally balance academic excellence with character formation, ensuring that our students are equipped to flourish and become positive contributors to society.

Andrew Perks – Deputy Principal: Culture and Character Education