British Values
As of 2014, the Department for Education published guidance stating that all schools have a duty to actively promote the fundamental British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
These values are linked to our school values and are woven throughout our curriculum and everyday school life, helping children to become responsible, respectful and active members of society. Children are encouraged to share their views, take on leadership roles, make positive choices, and develop an understanding of their rights and responsibilities. Through assemblies, classroom learning, enrichment activities and meaningful discussions, we celebrate diversity, promote equality, and help every child develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to thrive in modern Britain.
Democracy:
- Electing Pupil Parliament representatives through a voting process.
- Holding class votes on topics such as rewards, class books, educational visits or fundraising activities.
- Conducting pupil surveys and acting on the feedback received.
- Leadership Opportunities – Pupil Parliament, Wellbeing Team, Y6 Buddies, Farm Managers
- Involving pupils in interviewing new staff members
- Involving pupils in decision-making about playground improvements or school developments.
- Visit to the Houses of Parliament and learning how decisions are made in Britain.
- PSHE curriculum with topics such as Rights and Responsibilities
Rule of Law:
- Consistently applying rewards and consequences so children understand fairness.
- Discussing why rules are important for keeping everyone safe, happy and ready to learn.
- Following clear behaviour, anti-bullying and safeguarding policies.
- Having playground rules that are understood by all pupils.
- Using restorative conversations to help children understand the impact of their actions.
- Celebrating positive behaviour through certificates, rewards and recognition assemblies.
- Training the Wellbeing Team, Y6 buddies or Mini Police volunteers to model responsible behaviour.
- Involving Pupil Parliament in reviewing school rules and expectations.
- Visits from police officers, firefighters, road safety teams and other community professionals.
- Participation in programmes such as Mini Police, helping children understand laws and their role in keeping communities safe.
- Learning about laws that protect people, including children's rights and online safety rules.
Individual Liberty:
- Providing choices within lessons, such as how to present work or which resources to use.
- Supporting pupils to take responsibility for their belongings, learning and behaviour.
- Encouraging children to share their opinions and ideas in class discussions.
- Ensuring children feel confident to speak to trusted adults if they have worries or concerns.
- Celebrating individual achievements and talents both in and out of school.
- Encouraging participation in performances, sports, leadership roles and competitions.
- Supporting children to develop resilience and confidence when facing challenges.
- Teaching pupils how to make safe choices online through regular e-safety lessons.
- Using PSHE lessons to discuss personal choices, emotions and decision-making.
- Exploring inspirational individuals who have made positive choices and overcome barriers.
Mutual Respect
- Children from mainstream classes and the resource base learn, play and participate in school events together.
- The Wellbeing Team help children build friendships and understand each other's strengths and needs.
- Staff model respectful language and positive relationships at all times.
- Celebration assemblies recognise a wide range of achievements, ensuring every child feels valued and included.
- Pupils are taught to listen to different viewpoints and respond respectfully during class discussions.
- Classroom and playground rules are developed collaboratively and focus on kindness, respect and inclusion.
- The school promotes an understanding that everyone is unique and deserves respect regardless of ability, background or circumstance.
Tolerance
- Assemblies celebrate major religious and cultural festivals from a range of faiths and communities.
- Children learn about different cultures, traditions and beliefs through the curriculum.
- Books, displays and resources reflect the diversity of modern Britain and include positive representation of people with disabilities and additional needs.
- Children are encouraged to ask questions and learn about differences in a safe and respectful environment.
- The resource base provides opportunities for pupils to develop understanding an understanding of the different ways of communicating, learning and interacting.
- School events celebrate diversity and encourage families from all backgrounds to take a full part in school life.