SMSC & British Values
Promoting Fundamental British Values at Cordwalles Junior 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 this year. Within the Federation these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:
Democracy
Democracy is evident throughout our school. Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through Circle Time and PHSE activities. Our school’s Behaviour Policy involves rewards which promote fundamental British Values.
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, particularly during school and class assemblies, SMSC and topic work. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws; that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and consequences when laws/rules are broken.
Individual Liberty
Within school, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. 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 SMSC lessons. Whether it be through choice of challenge, how they record work, selection of lunches or participation in our extensive extra-curricular clubs - pupils are given the freedom to make choices.
Mutual Respect
Part of our school ethos and behaviour policy has revolved around Core Values such as ‘Respect’, and pupils have been part of discussions and assemblies related to what this means and how it is shown.
Tolerance of and respect for those of all faiths, no faith, different cultures and lifestyles
This is achieved through enhancing pupils understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity. Assemblies and discussions involving prejudices and prejudice-based issues have been followed and supported by learning in RE and SMSC. Members of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning at Cordwalles Junior School.
