Promoting British Values at Stanton School

The DfE have 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 2011, and these values continue to be reiterated.

At Stanton School, we aim for our children to become valuable and fully rounded members of society, who treat others with respect and tolerance, regardless of background. We promote the basic British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance for those with different faiths and beliefs in the following ways:

Democracy

We have a School Parliament with members from Year 3 to Year 6.  These children have election campaigns at the beginning of the school year and are voted for as representatives of their class.  The Parliament meets regularly and in the meetings the children’s views and ideas on a range of school issues are sought, and they help make decisions.  These decisions are fed back to the classes in our assemblies.

The Rule of Law

The importance of laws (whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country) are consistently reinforced throughout the school day, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through school assemblies.  Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken.  Visits from authorities such as the Police and Fire Service help reinforce this message.

At the beginning of each school year children are reminded of the PROUD rules and expectations.  This establishes expected behaviour and attitudes to learning that each child should try to follow. The rewards and sanctions are then drawn from this.  The children are rewarded for excellent behaviour and attitudes to learning by collecting PROUD points.

Individual Liberty

Pupils are actively encouraged to make good choices knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment.  Making choices is a key part of the school vision, which children learn about through assemblies, PHSE, through staff attitudes and school ethos.  Through our work we discuss different choices that the children can make and encourage them to make the right choices.  We look at E-safety as a key part of the ICT curriculum and the importance making safe choices when online as well as out and about in the community.

Mutual Respect

Mutual respect is at the heart of our values here at Stanton School.  We are an inclusive school where everyone is valued and has a contribution to make.  Children learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others.  The children and staff often work with other schools in our collaboration and with the local Church, community groups etc. which develops their respect for others in the wider community.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

Stanton School is situated in an area which is culturally diverse, therefore we place a great emphasis on promoting diversity with the children.  Assemblies are regularly planned to address this issue either directly or through the inclusion of stories and celebrations from a variety of faiths and cultures.  Our weekly RE and PSHE teaching reinforces this.  Members of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes and the school.

At Stanton School we will actively challenge pupils, staff or parents expressing opinions contrary to fundamental British Values, including ‘extremist’ views.

We pride ourselves in being a warm and supportive school producing globally-aware citizens who are rounded, inclusive and thoughtful.