Carrington’s Code evolving at St Ives

Carrington’s Code, the guiding light of expectations and culture for boys and staff at St Ives since 2013, has been refined this year.

Following a period of reflection and consultation with staff, it was felt that Kindness and Compassion were worthy values to include in the code. Kindness has always been a prominent feature of the culture of St Ives, and it was felt that Compassion was actually Empathy but with action, and so was worthy of inclusion.

Carrington, the Lion overlooking Cowper Field, has actually been part of St Ives since 2004. He was ‘rehoused’ from the Carrington Hotel at Katoomba and sits atop a time capsule buried beneath him on the occasion of St Ives’ 50th anniversary.

He is the symbol and figurehead of our code.

The values of Carrington’s Code have supported boys, staff and parents throughout their time at the School and are integrated into all that happens at St Ives.

Five simple words, used:

• as a guide to set expectations for learning and interactions
• to reinforce and celebrate positive behaviours
• as a reference point when things need to get back on track, and
• by all staff and boys Preschool–Year 6.

Carrington’s Code in 2026

This year has also seen the introduction of ‘Carrington’s Compass’, a set of desired Learning Dispositions to stand alongside Carrington’s Code.

We want St Ives boys to be Resilient, Creative, Reflective, Curious and Collaborative learners.

Again, these five dispositions were finalised after lengthy input from all staff, and the common language and expectations are consistent across all classrooms and learning activities.

Having clear, consistent and well-communicated character values has been important in helping to shape the kind of men our boys will hopefully become, as well as sustaining a positive culture based on high expectations and authentically modelled behaviour.

It is hoped that the legacy of both Carrington’s Code and Carrington’s Compass stays with St Ives boys and continues to aid their growth, long after they have their farewell photograph with Carrington at the end of Year 6.

Carrington’s Compass