Promoting British Values

The Department for Education has recently reinforced the need “to create and enforce a clear and rigorous expectation on all schools to promote the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.”

The Government sets out its definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy, and these values were reiterated in 2014. We promote these values through our mission statement, own school values, curriculum and enrichment activities.

Democracy

Democracy is an important value at our school. All adults listen to the views of our pupils and value their opinions. Pupils have the opportunity to have their voice heard through the School Council. The elections of members are based on pupil votes. The School Council members attend regular meetings and then feedback to their classes and in assemblies.

At the beginning of each school year, pupils work together to agree their class rules which are based around the school values.

Children are also given opportunities to vote within the curriculum e.g. The Book Awards.

The Rule of Law

The importance of laws and rules, whether they are those that govern the class, the school or the country, are consistently reinforced at all times. The way in which we promote positive relationships is aligned to ‘The School Values and Rules which are:

  • We believe that all of our children are individuals with the ability to succeed.
  • We aim high to reach the top.
  • We are always happy to include everyone.
  • We have fun learning together and independently.
  • We respect our selves, each other, the school and the school community.
  • We are safe and take care of ourselves and each other.
  • We behave in a polite and honest way.
  • We try to be healthy and make healthy choices.
  • Every day counts in every way.

Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws –  that they govern and protect us, the responsibility that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. If rules are broken, children are asked to identify which rule they have broken to ensure that this connection is made and is understood.

Individual Liberty (Freedom)

Pupils are actively encouraged to be independent learners and to make choices at our school, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. They are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely, for example through PSHE and e-safety lessons. Pupils are given the freedom to make choices.

Mutual Respect

Our school ethos and policies are underpinned by our Values Statement.  ‘Keep It Real’ Respect, Every day Counts , Aim High and Love to learn, which help us to live out our vision and determine how we live as a community. They are highly visible around the school and can be seen in classrooms and in the hall. Assemblies constantly promote respect for others. All pupils are taught the importance of self-respect, honesty and fair play. During class
lessons pupils learn collaboratively and are taught to value others’ opinions.

Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

As a community, pupils are reminded of their place in a culturally diverse society. This is achieved through our Religious Education curriculum, PSHE and other areas of the curriculum. During RE lessons, pupils learn about other faiths and members of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes and the school.