Promoting British Values

The DfE have 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 set out its definition of British values in the 2011 ‘Prevent’ Strategy and these values have become embedded in Education Policy. At Hillshott School these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways: 

Democracy

At Hillshott children have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Council, PSHE lessons and assemblies. The topic based curriculum, together with focus weeks, offers the children the chance to make choices related to their learning in a democratic manner.

The rule of law

The importance of Laws, whether they are those that govern the class, the school, or the country, is consistently reinforced throughout the school day, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through school assemblies. Children are taught the value and reasons behind rules, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when rules are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Police, the Fire Service, Paramedics etc. are incorporated into our topics and help reinforce this message.

Individual liberty

Within school children are encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for children to make choices through the provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Children are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and they are advised how to exercise these safely e.g. through our E-safety and PSHE lessons.

Mutual respect

Part of our school's ethos and behaviour policy revolves around core values and children have been part of discussions and assemblies related to what this means and how it is shown. Reminders around the school promote respect for others and this is reiterated through our classroom and learning rules, as well as our behaviour policy.

Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs

This is achieved through enhancing our children’s understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity. Assemblies and discussions involving prejudices have been followed and supported by learning in RE and PSHE. Members of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes. Our school’s ethos reflects the values we hold so that everyone is treated in an equal, respectful manner. It is a fundamental part of who we are and what we strive to be.