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 been reiterated by the Prime Minister this year. Youlgrave All-Saints these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:

Democracy:

We have a School Council which meets regularly to discuss issues raised in Class Council meetings. The children on the council are elected by their peers, and represent the class views at the meeting.  Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our class discussions and pupil questionnaires.

The Rule of Law:

The importance of Laws/ rules, 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 collective worship. Pupils are taught from an early age the rules of the school which are developed with input from the children.  They are also taught the value and reasons behind rules and 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 are regular parts of our 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 all pupils to make choices safely, through the 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. Pupils are given lots of opportunities to learn about themselves through the voices provided in extracurricular clubs and are given the opportunity within lessons to make choices.

Mutual Respect:

Part of our school ethos and behaviour policy has revolved around Core Values such as ‘Respect’ as part of the whole school We Care ethos and cares curriculum.  Mutual respect is at the heart of our values. Children learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community treat each other with respect. This is also a key feature of our behaviour policy. Some pupils volunteer as ‘Playtime Leaders’ to encourage positive playtimes and ensure all children are included.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs:

As a Church of England School our themes for Collective Worship reinforce Christian values which underpin all work within the school. We recognise the importance of promoting diversity and use Religious Education lessons, PSHE lessons and Collective Worship to celebrate different faiths and cultures and reinforce messages of tolerance and respect for others. This is achieved through enhancing pupils understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity.