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.
Rothersthorpe CE Primary School recognises the multicultural, multi-faith and ever-changing nature of the United Kingdom. It also understands the vital role it has in ensuring that groups or individuals are not subjected to intimidation or radicalisation by those wishing to unduly, or illegally, influence them. Our school follows the policies outlined by its governing body regarding equality and inclusion, which guarantee that there will be no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar. It seeks to serve all.
Rothersthorpe CE Primary School takes opportunities to promote British Values, defined by the Government as the following:
- Democracy
- The rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Mutual respect
- Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
Democracy
Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Council, Pupil Questionnaires, Pupil interviews and PSHE activities. Councillors are elected through democratic voting in each class at the beginning of each school year.
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 regular school days, 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, Fire Service etc. are regular parts of our school calendar and help reinforce this message.
Individual Liberty
Within school, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school, we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make choices safely, through provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advise on how to exercise these safely, for example through our E-Safety and PSHE lessons.
Mutual Respect
Our school ethos and motto promotes respect for ourselves and others. This is reiterated through our classroom and learning rules, as well as our behaviour policy. With our close community links, we work with a variety of people, particularly the elderly who are regularly involved in our events, for example, VE day, Harvest Festival etc. We also promote respect for others through the giving of special awards who remember people who once lived in our local area: The Ella Appleton Cup – for community service; Amy’s Prize for working hard and good behaviour; The James Docherty Sports Cup. (This is seen as a positive way to remember children and young people from our community who are sadly no longer with us).
Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
This is achieved through enhancing pupils' understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity. Assemblies and discussions involving prejudices and prejudice-based bullying 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 and the school.