Every week I read articles lamenting the state of the modern generation of children: too precious, too fragile, too entitled, too quick to quit. The finger often points at parents, schools, or society at large. But rarely do we stop and ask: what are we actually doing to build resilience and character in children?

At Ardvreck, we make a conscious choice to do the opposite of what the world so often rewards. We don’t cocoon our pupils in bubble wrap. We don’t iron out every obstacle. Instead, our children climb Munros in the rain. They rehearse until the curtain goes up - not until they’re bored. They are expected to shoulder responsibility for their kit, their friendships - and their actions. They learn that tenacity matters more than instant gratification; that failure is rarely fatal - and almost always formative.

Character education is not a bolt-on at Ardvreck. It is stitched into the fabric of daily life: the canoe expedition, the tricky prep, the shared meal, the team sport. Each is an arena where resilience, kindness and self-discipline are tested and strengthened, bolstered by our award winning pastoral care.

In a world where too many young people are being set up to wobble at the first headwind, we believe our approach is not just quaint - it is essential. As the Scouts have long reminded us, the real goal is to be prepared - for challenges, setbacks, and the unexpected turns of life. Tenacious, grounded, resilient children become adults who can thrive, lead, and contribute with courage and integrity.

It’s not about being tough. It’s about being ready for life - with all its storms and splendours.

At Ardvreck, that’s our promise.