Aquinas College has been awarded the School of Character Quality Mark by the Association of Character Education (ACE) – a significant recognition that celebrates schools that demonstrate outstanding commitment to developing character, virtues and moral purpose in young people.
The prestigious international award follows a detailed assessment process with ACE and formally acknowledges the College’s deep commitment to fostering an education that prioritises both personal integrity and academic excellence.
ACE commended Aquinas for its “significant dedication and commitment” in meeting the high standards the Quality Mark represents, recognising the efforts of students, staff and leaders in contributing to a culture where character formation is central to College life.
Special recognition was also given to Mr Mark Weston for his leadership in developing the College’s comprehensive approach to Character Education.
Character at the Heart of College Life
The ACE report praised Aquinas College for having Character Education that is “driven from the top” and “thoroughly embedded across the College.” Underpinned by the desire to equip students with a strong sense of moral purpose, Character Education reflects the College’s values and was identified as a defining feature of the Aquinas experience.
From the GEM program in the Junior School to the Veritas curriculum
and Odyssey experience in the Senior School, ACE highlighted Aquinas College’s “clear character pathway”
that supports students’ growth at every stage of their journey.
The report also celebrated Aquinas students’ high levels of virtue literacy. Pupils were able to confidently discuss attributes such as respect, perseverance and compassion, explaining how these values guide their daily lives both within and beyond the classroom.
“Good character is what you do when no one is watching,”
one student quoted during the thorough assessment, reflecting the intrinsic motivation that lies at the heart of the College’s Character Education philosophy.
A Culture of Service, Respect and Reflection
The ACE assessors were particularly impressed by the way Aquinas integrates service learning into school life, noting how the College “cultivates a strong habit of service to others while contributing to the common good.”
They also highlighted the College’s innovative work with families, including initiatives such as father-and-son sessions on respect and relationships, which extend the language of character beyond the classroom and into the home.
The inclusion of a dedicated Character Section
in student reports was commended as evidence of the College’s belief that virtue development stands alongside academic excellence.
