Lessons from a bear called Paddington

Why is Paddington loved by so many and how has he lasted the test of time from first publication in 1958 until today? Not only are the books full of humour, they depict a very lovable young bear with wholesome values who finds the good in everyone and is a creative problem solver. Indeed, he exhibits many aspects of our Junior School Learner Profile, demonstrating perseverance when faced with adversity, thinking independently and making things work for him as an individual, whilst simultaneously, bringing the community together. 

At Redmaids’ High Junior School, good moral and ethical values never go out of date. Paddington is unfailingly polite, greeting others as he passes along the road and showing everyone respect. He is not judgmental and is kind and well-mannered. Similarly, our Golden Rules underpin our culture here with ‘Being kind and caring’ the first one we instill across the school. ‘Being Polite and well-mannered’ another. Happy children are ready to learn.  

An entrepreneur, a doer, Paddington gets on with things. In Paddington 2 he puts himself out there to raise money to purchase a present for Aunt Lucy. From washing pets to cleaning windows, he works hard. Redmaids work hard too and are encouraged to try out activities, fundraise or volunteer, finding out about themselves along the way, their likes and dislikes, how robust they can be. 

What else can we learn from this little bear? He is popular and makes relationships successfully whatever the circumstances; despite flooding the Brown household and despite landing in prison in Paddington 2. He sees the good in everyone and this is reflected in him being a happy individual. We recognise the importance of warm relationships, giving the pupils here the opportunity to get to know as many members of our community as possible. From a buddy system (Big Girl, Little Girl) when they join, to vertically grouped activities on a Friday afternoon, we encourage everyone to truly take time to get to know each other and integrate. When we know each other well, we are more likely to look out for each other.  

It is not always a smooth journey though and Paddington faces challenges daily. Who has forgotten the wallpapering incident where he wallpapered over the door and could not get out? How would we cope with a circumstance like that? We can all remember working on something that went wrong, frustratingly, and had to find a way out. It is good to be reminded periodically, as adults, how it feels to be out of our comfort zones. When did we last learn a new skill? Can you remember what that felt like? 

So what has happened to Aunt Lucy? We wait with anticipation for Paddington 3, released the day before our Saturday 9 November Open Morning. If you were writing the script, what would you have written? Why not immerse yourself into the books again and rediscover the humour? In the meantime, join us for a morning of Paddington-inspired activities across the school, hosted by our Year 4 and 5 pupils. His attributes are often overlooked but we know them really, which is why he is loved by many. We look forward to seeing you there! 

Bring your daughter along to our Open Morning on Saturday 9 November. Click here to book your place.