At Reigate St Mary’s, we believe that education is about more than grades; it’s about equipping children with the mindset to thrive in an ever-changing world. That’s why we place a strong emphasis on developing a growth mindset - a concept that transforms how children approach learning, challenges, and success.
A growth mindset teaches pupils that intelligence and ability are not fixed traits but can be cultivated through effort, perseverance, and resilience. This approach contrasts sharply with a fixed mindset, where fear of failure and staying within one’s comfort zone can limit potential. At RSM, we encourage every child to embrace the word “yet” - as in, I don’t know how to do that… yet. This simple shift fosters confidence and curiosity.
Our commitment to growth mindset principles is reflected in our culture. We moved away from traditional status symbols such as head boy or girl roles and prize-giving ceremonies, choosing instead to celebrate every child’s unique strengths and the hard work behind their achievements. Positive feedback focuses on effort and progress, not rankings or percentages, ensuring that all pupils feel valued and motivated by inner fulfilment rather than external validation.
Why does this matter? Beyond the classroom, a growth mindset is a powerful predictor of success. In fact, a recent Forbes article revealed that 80% of companies believe a growth mindset among employees directly drives profits, underscoring its importance in the modern workplace. By instilling these values early, we prepare our pupils not only to excel academically but to adapt, innovate, and lead in their future careers.
As life’s challenges grow more complex, the ability to bounce back from setbacks, seek help when needed, and keep striving is invaluable. At Reigate St Mary’s, we don’t just teach children what to learn - we teach them how to think, grow, and flourish.
