British Values Statement for Scholes Village Primary School
"Pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is good. All of the planned experiences and
activities promote a good understanding of British values and the importance of respect for others"
Ofsted 2015
As our school is built on the values of respect and equality irrespective of background, beliefs and religion, ‘British Values’ are an intrinsic part of our ethos and school culture.
The Government has stated that British Values are:
· Democracy
· The rule of law
· Individual liberty
· Mutual respect and tolerance for those of different faiths and beliefs.
British values are reinforced regularly through the relationships and attitudes in school as well as through many practical/curricular opportunities:
Democracy: Article 12 (UNCRC) states that ‘children have the right to have a say in matters that affect them’.
School has a well established system of democratic elections for School Council. Voting is also used in other areas of the curriculum where we want the pupils to have their say/choice. When appointing key staff school council interview the candidates and feedback to SLT. Older pupils are encouraged to take part in debates to learn how to argue and defend points of view eg. Should we have a wind turbine on the school field?
The Rule of Law: Article 41 (UNCRC) states that ‘if the laws of a country protect children better than the articles of the Convention then those laws must stay in place’.
School teaches children that everyone, children and adults alike are to be given respect. All adults in school must act in the best interests of each child. Our behaviour policy sets out clear rewards and sanctions. Pupils follow safety rules in PE activities and the lunchtime scrap shed.
Individual Liberty: Article 2 (UNCRC) states that ‘The Convention applies to everyone: whatever their race, religion or abilities, whatever they think or say, whatever type of family they come from’.
Our pupils are seen as individuals and are celebrated as such. We invite parents to join us in celebrating pupils achievements in and out of school in our Friday assembly.
Mutual Respect and Tolerance: Article 14 ( UNCRC) states that ‘every child has the right to think and believe what they want and to practise their religion as long as they are not stopping other people from enjoying their rights’.
Assemblies teach respect for all, R.E. lessons teach children about other faiths, pupils visit places of worship of other faiths. We encourage pupils and parents of different faiths to talk about their beliefs (to become our experts) and we compare and contrast these faiths.
Each year our Year 4 class participates in Carry My Story (a year long project promoting celebration of difference as well as respect, tolerance and empathy for others).
We try to take part in as many Local, National or Global activities/ charity events as we can.
· Harvest Festivals – comparing us with less fortunate families
- · Local foodbank collections
· Remembrance / Armistice Events shared with the local community
· Linking Network Projects celebrating individuality, a wide range of cultures and diversity
· NSPCC
· Macmillan Cancer Trust
· Enterprise activities
· British Heart Foundation
· Comic Relief & Sport Relief
· Children in Need
· Autism Awareness
· Anti-bullying (Alliance) Week & Odd Socks Day