British Values

The Government emphasises that schools are required to ensure that key 'British Values' are taught in all UK schools. The government set out its definition of British values in the 'Prevent Strategy' - values of:

• Democracy
• The rule of law
• Individual liberty
• Mutual respect
• Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

Our school reflects British values in all that we do. We aim to nurture our children on their journey through life so they can grow into safe, caring, democratic, responsible and tolerant adults who make a positive difference to British society and to the world. We encourage our children to be creative, unique, open-minded and independent individuals, respectful of themselves and of others in our school, our local community and the wider world. 

The teaching of Fundamental British Values is embedded in our Lunar curriculum, encouraging children to learn about British Values in a real life context, understanding how and why they shape our way of life eg Y6 discussed the theme of Individual Liberty throughout their Titanic topic, whilst debating the varying treatment of first and third class passengers; Y2 discussed the value of Tolerance through their work on Nelson Mandela; a whole school theme day to celebrate Stephen Lawrence Day, with the theme ‘Live Your Best Life’ gave classes the opportunity to explore how Mutual Respect can impact on our lives.

Each class curriculum map shows where FBV are explicitly taught throughout the topics

At St Michael with St Thomas CE Primary, we actively promote British values in the following ways:

Democracy

• Throughout the curriculum, we encourage all children to debate topics of interest and express their views across a full range of topics and themes, for example in History, English and Religious Education
• Through the School Council, pupils make a meaningful contribution to the running of the school on matters that directly involve them. Children also have the opportunity to have their voices heard through pupil questionnaires and pupil interviews
• The principle of democracy is explored in the curriculum as well as during assemblies and worship.  Local MPs and Councillors visit the school, meet with children and parents, and have donated funding and resources
• Pupils have had active involvement in the selection processes of new staff

The Rule of Law

• Our simple school rules are integral to our learning and ethos every day. These are clear, fair and regularly promoted
• The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced 
• Pupils are always helped to distinguish right from wrong, in the classroom, during assemblies and on the playground
• Pupils are taught the value and the reasons behind laws and rules that govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws or rules are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Police and Fire Service reinforce this message
• The Behaviour and Anti-Bullying policies set out clear expectations that any form of aggression, abuse or violence, which extends to pupils, staff and parents and carers, will not be tolerated

Individual Liberty

• Within school, pupils are actively encouraged, and given the freedom to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment, e.g. by signing up for extra-curricular clubs
• Pupils are encouraged to take responsibility for their behaviour and our pastoral support reinforces the importance of making the right choices
• Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our e-safety teaching and PSHE lessons
• Vulnerable pupils are protected and stereotypes challenged. A strong anti-bullying culture is embedded in the school and any form of bullying is challenged and addressed
• Pupils have key roles and responsibilities in school e.g. Play Leaders, leading worship, School Council, older pupils reading with younger children and so on

Mutual Respect

• Through our Christian ethos, pupils know and understand that it is expected that respect is shown to everyone, adults and children alike
• Staff and pupils are encouraged to challenge prejudicial or discriminatory behaviour
• Collective Worship and discussions involving prejudices and prejudiced-based bullying have been followed and supported by learning in RE and PSHE