A Framework for Values-Based Education: From Vision to Practice

In an era of unprecedented complexity for schools, where mental health challenges, SEND needs, and rising expectations converge, this essential guide offers a transformative solution. Tracey Smith, a leading advocate and practitioner of Values-Based Education (VbE), draws on decades of experience and a wealth of real-world case studies to show how embedding shared human values can revolutionise school culture, academic outcomes, and community wellbeing.

From the corridors of UK primaries to global classrooms, Smith demonstrates how values such as respect, integrity, and compassion are not just ideals, but practical tools for uniting diverse communities, fostering global citizenship, and nurturing resilient, ethical learners. With insights from educational leaders, and field notes, A Framework for Values-Based Education provides both a compelling argument and a practical handbook for educators and policymakers seeking to create inclusive, high-performing schools.

Whether you are a school leader, teacher, or researcher, A Framework for Values-Based Education demonstrates how a values-based approach can address today’s educational challenges, building not only academic excellence but also the character and citizenship needed for a fairer, more understanding world.

Tracey Smith, Values-based Education, UK, and The University of Buckingham.

After a career as a primary school teacher, Tracey became Headteacher in 3 different primary schools, followed by a spell as Executive Headteacher, implementing Values-based Education across all of her settings after initially being trained in VbE by its founder, Dr Neil Hawkes. Following a spell as Primary Lead at the University of Buckingham, Tracey turned her attention to teacher training and supporting schools in their Values-Based approach, along with her current role supporting Paul Dix, the relational behaviour expert.