Promoting British Values at St. Joseph’s Catholic Infant School

 

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 been reiterated by the Prime Minister

 

At St. Joseph’s Catholic Infant School we promote these values and aim to create tomorrows citizens who will respect others, be tolerant and support others.

 

Democracy:

Democracy is evidenced in an age appropriate manner. Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Council and Pupil questionnaires/ Pupil Voice.

 

The rule of law:

The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, through our class rules created at the beginning of the year. We also apply ‘The rule of law’ when dealing with behaviour and through school assemblies. Visits from authorities such as the police; Fire Service; Ambulance Service etc. are planned as part of our school of our calendar to help reinforce this message.

 

Individual Liberty:

Within school, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe supportive environment. 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 how to exercise these safely, for example through our E-safety and PSHE lessons.

 

Mutual Respect:

Our Catholic ethos and behaviour policy means that ‘Mutual Respect’ is embedded in all we do and say- we model this and support children in understanding the importance of respect through our words and actions.

 

Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs:

This is achieved though enhancing pupils understanding of their place in our culturally diverse community. Assemblies and discussions support learning in RE and PSHE.