From Family Values to School Values

From family values to school values. Lessons from my parents

By Head, Mr Anderson

Today would have marked the 54th wedding anniversary of my parents. Why am I telling you this? From an early age, it was clear that my parents had dedicated their lives to the service and care of others.

My mother, Janet, became a highly respected and well-known consultant paediatrician, working at New Cross Hospital for over 25 years. Alongside this, she served as Chair of Governors at Penn Hall Special School, was a long-standing board member at Compton Care, and worked tirelessly in her local Methodist church. Mum sadly passed away in March 2023, leaving behind a lasting legacy in all areas of her life.

My dad, Lawrence, enlisted in the army at the age of 18 and served his country in various roles over many years. After his military career—and after overcoming prostate cancer—he continued to dedicate himself to helping others. Whether supporting the homeless, mowing his neighbours’ lawns, or simply chatting with members of the older generation, he was always there for people. My parents prided themselves on working with others, helping others, and building meaningful relationships. Since Mum’s passing, Dad has been diagnosed with the early stages of dementia, and life is becoming increasingly difficult for him. He now lives in a nursing home but still loves to talk and listen to people.

A shameless plug, before I continue: on Saturday 12th July, we’ll be holding the third annual sponsored hockey match to raise money for Compton Care and Prostate Cancer UK. The following weekend, my daughter Charlotte and I will be doing a skydive in support of the Alzheimer’s Society. If you’d like to sponsor us, please see the links at the end of this post.

So, why have I shared this with you?
Because I’ve learned so much from my parents about relationships and service. I believe these are essential ingredients for a meaningful and rewarding life. 
During my time as a teacher and now Head at Wolverhampton Grammar School, I always try to remember what my parents taught me. Relationships are so important to me, not only the ones that I have, but also the new ones that I make every day. The interactions in and around school are so special. I believe that our school is a better place only if everyone works together and serves each other. No student, or should I say person, should go unnoticed and not appreciated. My job as Head is to ensure that I lead by example.

Last year, our students worked together to produce a values statement which states that ‘Wolverhampton Grammar School is an inclusive and inspiring community built on respect, individuality, equity and kindness’.

We value people whatever their backgrounds, their religions or cultures are. Our community is like no other. Relationships are key. Particularly staff to students. Students need to feel confident and comfortable to talk to their teachers – to ask for help, to seek guidance and share their challenges. Our teachers do just that, because they care. They are interested and we have a professional pride to do the best job they can.

At Wolverhampton Grammar School, we strive to create a safe and caring environment where every student feels valued and supported. Our commitment to fostering strong relationships and a sense of community ensures that each child can thrive both academically and personally. We believe that by working together and serving each other, we can build a school where everyone feels included and respected.

Our school is not just a place of learning; it is a place where students can grow, explore their interests, and develop into well-rounded individuals. The values we uphold—respect, individuality, equity, and kindness—are at the heart of everything we do. We encourage prospective parents to consider Wolverhampton Grammar School as a place where their children will receive not only an excellent education but also the support and care they need to succeed in life.

In sharing my parents' story, I hope to inspire others to recognise the value of service and the importance of building strong, supportive relationships. These principles are deeply embedded in the culture of Wolverhampton Grammar School, making it a truly special place for students to learn and grow.

To sponsor us, please click here.