You may have noticed an additional line or two at the bottom of our emails and social posts of late – we’ve been creating our values and now we want to shout about them.
Liz and I feel our values are front and centre of every decision we make, whether that’s planning for our students, hiring and supporting tutor or delivering for our clients and families. So what’s underpinning our business and our success? Keep reading…
Value #1 People First
People First! has been the bedrock throughout our rapid growth over the last three years. It’s the fundamental question we ask ourselves with each new client, new development in our business and new opportunity – does this put the people we support first? Is it the right thing to do?
Value #2 Be honest and direct, with optimism
We believe that people make their best contributions when they can reflect honestly on problems, anxieties, mistakes, relationships, developments and opportunities. Our flat business hierarchy is one way in which we endeavour to create an open and supportive organisation for all.
Value #3 Everyone has impact
We champion the diversity in our community. We recognise talents, we find ways to explore personal interests and we support personal growth through teaching, mentoring, training and discussion. We believe each and every person should have the opportunity to be the very best that they can.
Value #4 Together, we raise the bar
We recognise the vital role that everyone plays in supporting our students and that we are more effective when we pull in one direction. Working with schools, families and other allied professionals for the best interest of our students is front and foremost in the work that we do.
Value #5 Excellence is a state of mind
Our favourite Nelson Mandela quote encapsulates our thinking on excellence so nicely. “I never lose – I either win or I learn.” Growth mindset is everything at Next Steps, not just for our students but for all who encounter us.
Creating Your Values
Creating our values was great fun and a valuable compass for all that we do at Next Steps Education. We will hold ourselves to them at all times and use them to help us know “the right thing” for us. Would you like to discover your own values? Take a look at our list of values and see which you would pick for yourself.