Mission, vision & values

At the William Henry Smith Foundation, everything we do is guided by a deep commitment to the wellbeing and growth of children and young people. This page outlines our mission, vision, and core values - the foundation of our work and the principles that drive us forward every day.
"Our Mission: To champion a holistic and tailored approach, enriching the lives of children and young adults, their families, our people, and the wider community."

Our Vision

To transform lives and break down barriers, empowering every individual to reach their fullest potential.

Our Values

Our values guide everything we do at the William Henry Smith Foundation. They shape how we work, how we support one another, and how we create safe, caring spaces for children and young people to grow. These are the principles we live by every day.

WHS Values - two circles overlapping motif which signifies close collaboration
Close Collaboration

It takes a village to raise a child, and that village starts with us. We’re a team of listeners, collaborators, and supporters who adopt a curious and compassionate approach, building trusting relationships with local authorities, families, children and young adults, and our people. By understanding backgrounds, behaviours, and lifelong ambitions, we strive to build individualised pathways that are guided, encouraged, and nurtured by specialists.

WHSF green arch motif which signifies unwavering integrity
Unwavering Integrity

We lead with honesty, purpose, and an unshakeable belief in what we do. We hold ourselves to the highest standards, always keep our word, and work hard to earn trust from the children, young adults, families, and people we serve, leaving a lasting mark that extends beyond the classroom.

WHS Values - yellow smile which signifies compassionate curiousity
Compassionate Curiosity

Every person’s story is unique, and we take the time to understand it. We ask why and dig deeper to uncover the bigger picture. With open arms and open minds, we foster safe and nurturing spaces where children, young adults, families, and communities feel fully supported. We listen without prejudice and respond with care, helping people rewrite difficult chapters into stories of growth, resilience, and limitless possibilities.

WHSF Values - Orange Map Location Symbol which is a motif that represents the empowering communuty
Empowering Community

We are a thriving village where every voice matters, and everyone is valued. By embracing diversity in all of its forms, we foster an enriching environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported around the clock. This applies to families, communities, and our people as well as children and young adults, with a deep sense of belonging echoing throughout everything we do.

WHSF Values - Purple up arrow which signifies visionary thinking
Visionary Thinking

We know that to inspire others, we must feel inspired ourselves. That’s why we set the highest standards. We lead by example, role modelling behaviours that help shape those around us. With enthusiasm, optimism, and unwavering belief in children, young adults, and our people, we nurture an environment where everyone is empowered to surpass what they thought possible. Our shared purpose, expert knowledge, and passion for progress drive us to build something even bigger than ourselves.

Two boys interacting with building elements and games on a desk

Work for us

Join a Foundation that values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Browse our current staff vacancies to find roles that align with your skills and aspirations, and learn how you can contribute to shaping the next generation of learners.

Our vacancies