British Values at Alexandra Infants’ School
The Department for Education states that there is a 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 were reiterated in 2014.
At Alexandra Infants’ School, British values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:
DEMOCRACY
Democracy is embedded throughout the school. Pupils are always listened to by adults and are taught to listen carefully to one another, respecting the right of every individual to have their opinion and voices heard. Pupils are also able to air their ideas and opinions through our School Council which has representatives from each class in the school. The elections to the School Council are based on pupil votes, demonstrating democracy in action by reflecting the British electoral system.
THE RULE OF LAW
We strive to continually reinforce the importance of laws through our school and class rules. These are embedded in our daily work through PSHE lessons as well as through Assemblies and are also within our Behaviour policy. Pupils are taught that rules are used to protect us and are reminded of the need to follow the rules, of the reasons behind these rules and of the consequences to themselves and others if the rules are broken.
INDIVIDUAL LIBERTY
Throughout the day pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As part of our journey in becoming a Rights Respecting School, pupils are taught about their rights as individuals and also about the responsibilities that go alongside them. Pupils are also encouraged to express their opinions and to make their own choices e.g. participating in our after-school clubs.
MUTUAL RESPECT
Respect is at the heart of everything that we do at school. There is an expectation that respect is shown to everyone and to everything in the school. The core value of respect underpins our work every day, both inside and outside of the classroom.
TOLERANCE OF THOSE WITH DIFFERENT FAITHS AND BELIEFS
We serve a multi-faith community where each person is respected and valued equally without regard to ability, gender, faith, heritage or race. Cultural appreciation and development forms part of our curriculum. We place great emphasis on ensuring that we broaden pupils’ experiences and awareness of others’ cultures and beliefs. We do this through RE, Assemblies and celebrations from different cultures, faiths and world events. The staff work closely with parents, carers and other professionals to ensure that all pupils are happy, well cared for and enabled to learn the skills that they need to live a fulfilling life as part of the community. One of the ways we do this is through taking part in community events whenever possible.