British Values
All schools have a duty to ‘actively 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. At Meadowbank Primary School we promote the spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development of our pupils and through this demonstrate our commitment to fostering fundamental British values. This is achieved through a strong school ethos supported by effective relationships throughout the school, providing relevant enrichments opportunities beyond the classroom.
The Rule of Law:
Our pupils will encounter rules, expectations and laws throughout their lives. We help pupils understand that whether these govern the class, the school, the community or the country, they are set for good reasons and benefit us when they are adhered to. They are taught the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. This importance of rules will be consistently reinforced through assemblies and our curriculum. Through Personal Social Health Education (PSHE) and Religious Education (RE) we allow opportunity to debate and discuss the reasons for laws so children can recognise the importance of these for their own protection. Throughout the year we welcome visits from members of the wider community including police, the fire brigade and many more. We believe that clear explanations and real life stories emphasise the importance of the Rule of Law for our pupils.
Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs:
At Meadowbank we promote tolerance of all people with the aim that children are prepared for their futures to live and work alongside people from all backgrounds and cultures Our pupils know and understand that it is expected that respect is shown to everyone and to everything, whatever differences we may have. We celebrate many religions and cultures, enhancing pupils understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity and encourage children o share their own experiences when celebrating their own We strongly believe that tolerance is gained through knowledge and understanding, through our curriculum and the routines of our daily school life, we strive to demonstrate tolerance and help children to become knowledgeable and understanding citizens.
Individual liberty:
At Meadowbank, pupils are actively encouraged and given the freedom to make choices and have the right to respectfully express views and beliefs, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. We educate and provide boundaries for our pupils to make choices safely, through the provision of a safe environment, a planned curriculum and an empowering education supported with further enrichment opportunities. Pupils are supported to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence and are encouraged to take responsibility for their behaviour. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely.
Mutual respect:
At Meadowbank respect and tolerance permeate all areas of school life. This enables a climate within which pupils feel safe, secure and facilitates the pupils potential to flourish and inspire. All staff demonstrate respect and consistently model and promote the behaviours and attitudes that are the foundation of positive relationships. The strong school ethos encourages everyone to consider and support each other and to celebrate the worth and individuality of every member of the school community. Discussions in class and during whole school assemblies as well as issues that are promoted during collective worship, allow the children to show respect and reverence to all other individuals.
In addition we also promote British values through:
- Providing pupils with a broad general knowledge of, and promote respect for, public institutions and services;
- Enrichment opportunities including visitors such as the police, fire service, judges;
- Teaching pupils how they can influence decision-making through the democratic process;
- Assemblies;
- Modelling how perceived injustice can be peacefully challenged;
- Providing children with opportunities for enterprise e.g. Year 6 enterprise week
- Fundraising for and supporting charities chosen by the children
- Learning about the countries which make up Great Britain and the United Kingdom, through its geography, governance, flags, symbolism and culture
- Researching monarchy succession and key events
- Accepting responsibility for our planet through sustainable global education
- Learning about Britain within its role in Europe and the wider world and social responsibility
- Valuing the cultural aspects of ‘being British’ through our appreciation of the sports and the arts
- Engage with stories of national and local concern in the media
- Host school events linking to national events,
- Learn about inspiring Britons in history
- Acknowledging that these British Values are not unique to Britain and can be found as integral values throughout the world, throughout a range of religions and a variety of cultures
