Guiding principles

  • Guiding principles

    At Oxford Brookes, we have grown from our origins as the Oxford School of Art to a technology school, college, and polytechnic and then in 1992, a university. Our history has been defined by our students achieving their potential and a commitment to seeing our graduates well prepared for fulfilling and valuable lives.

    We know that our staff and students, alumni and friends, and other visitors notice the particular character of Oxford Brookes. In order to capture that clearly into a form that everyone could understand, in 2013 we embarked on a process to articulate clearly what defines our way of doing things.

    This process - of information gathering, and of talking to people - led us to define our guiding principles. They describe Oxford Brookes at its best; they show the character of our staff; and they shape the character of our graduates.

  • Confidence

    Confidence, as remembered and described by a young visitor to our Brookes Live Friday showcase at the Ashmolean Museum in March 2014.

    We have confidence in our staff and students, and we know that we prepare our graduates well for a fulfilling and valuable life. Through their success, we continue to earn our outstanding reputation.

    Enterprising creativity

    Enterprising creativity, from a shed to a classroom via Oxford Brookes' IT staff and computing students.

    We’re adaptable and flexible, and consider a fresh approach in everything we do - because we know our sustainability depends on a pioneering spirit.

    Connectedness

    Connectedness, as demonstrated by a joint charity of Oxford Brookes University and the University of Oxford, where students volunteer with the local community.

    Our academic excellence is underpinned by a history of learning by doing. Our connections and our Oxford roots are fundamental to our students’ experiences and our successful future.

    Generosity of spirit

    Investing in future social entrepreneurs.

    We believe people flourish in a culture of respect and support, where we celebrate difference and thrive on each others' success. Our students manifest a generosity of spirit as they progress in the world.