The Department for Education recently reinforced the need to ‘create and enforce a clear and rigorous expectation on all schools to promote the fundamental British values.’ The government set out its definition of British Values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy. These are:
●Democracy
●The rule of law
●Individual liberty
●Mutual respect
●Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
We seek every opportunity to promote the British Values within our school. From collective worship and curriculum plans, to developing effective relationships and behaviour policies, the British Values underpin every aspect of school life.
Democracy
Democracy is embedded at the school. Pupils are listened to by adults and are taught to listen carefully and with concern to each other, respecting the right of every individual to have their opinions heard. Pupils also have the opportunity to express their ideas through our School Council. The elections of the School Council members are based solely on pupil votes, reflecting our British electoral system and demonstrating democracy in action.
The Rule of Law
The importance of the law - whether they are the laws that govern the class, the school or the country - are consistently reinforced throughout the school day. We encourage our pupils to distinguish right from wrong, as well as to understand that the law is there to protect us. Our pupils are taught the rationale that informs the law, the responsibilities that this involves, and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from the Police, Fire Service, and other members of our community help to reinforce this message. Our restorative justice approach helps us to resolve conflicts, empathise with victims, and prevent reoccurrence.
Individual Liberty
Within school, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. We educate pupils to make informed decisions and support them to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence. Our pupils are encouraged to know, understand, and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely. Examples of this can be clearly seen in our eSafety, PSHE and Wellbeing lessons. We implement a strong anti-bullying culture.
Mutual Respect
Our school ethos is guided by a set of core values that enables individuals to live happy and successful lives within the communities to which they belong. Our values are taught through assemblies, PSHE, Wellbeing lessons and form a key part of our daily dialogue across the school. During Reflection, we focus on themes that underline the need for mutual respect between pupils and their peers, staff, families, and the wider community. Pupils understand that respect must be shown to everyone, regardless of our differences. Children are given regular opportunities to learn within their community and beyond. We have links with Manchester Metropolitan University, local businesses, libraries and football teams. A very wide range of extra-curricular clubs are offered after the school day. These clubs provide another opportunity to instil mutual respect with the attitudes of our pupils.
Tolerance of These With Different Faiths and Beliefs
Our core value of respect ensures tolerance of those who have different faiths and beliefs. We are a welcoming school for all faiths, cultures and nationalities. Our school curriculum is designed to mirror the representation and histories of families within the school, the local community and wider society. Pupils from different faiths and religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to promote shared respect and understanding.