UWC makes education a force to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future.
The values we promote are crucial in order to fulfil our mission:
The International Baccalaureate (IB) has its beginnings based in the UWC movement. The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world.
At the core of the UWC educational model, we have a deliberately diverse, engaged and motivated community who are pursuing the UWC mission. We value an experiential education and believe that teaching and learning should be experience-based. These experiences are acquired in six areas: service, active, academic, social, personal and outdoors. This will lead to students and alumni who, through personal example, courageous action and selfless leadership will work together in achieving the mission of the movement- a peaceful and sustainable future
The Guiding Principles of all 18 UWC schools and colleges draw their inspiration from Kurt Hahn and his pioneering work in founding the UWC movement. Underpinning these principles is the pursuit of peace and justice as the founding aim of UWC.
The following are the basic principles of education at a UWC school or college:
That this education should take place within a diverse college community. The selection of students should ensure representation from regions and social groups that reflect the wide range of tensions among and between peoples.
That this education requires the active promotion of intercultural understanding founded on shared life experiences, and co-operative and collaborative living. This is developed through a reflective dialogue on global issues and approaches to critical engagement in the pursuit of peace.
That a healthy lifestyle is integral to the balanced development of the whole person. Unhealthy lifestyles limit potential and hinder progress in all dimensions of development.
That community interaction is placed at the heart of college life. This requires the full and active participation of all members of the college.
That students are able to engage in continuing, positive action towards issues of sustainability, on both an institutional and individual level.
That opportunities for students to practice personal initiative, self-discipline and responsibility, to manage risk and embrace challenge must be provided. Where appropriate, these opportunities are supported by a reassuring adult presence.
That recognition is given to the fact that each individual possesses unique talents and abilities. Programmes should exist in each college which enable all selected students to fulfill their potential.