British Values
"The Department for Education has published guidance on promoting British values in schools to ensure young people leave school prepared for life in modern Britain...All 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. These values were first set out by the government in the ‘Prevent’ strategy in 2011."
- Department for Education, 2014.
At Arden Primary School, we recognise the importance of fostering a deep understanding of British values as an integral part of preparing our pupils for life in modern Britain. Reflecting the diversity of our society, our curriculum and daily school activities integrate social, cultural, moral, and spiritual values. Our aim is to help children develop a greater tolerance and understanding of the world.
We actively promote the fundamental British values of:
- Democracy
- The Rule of Law
- Individual Liberty
- Mutual Respect
- Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
- Tradition and Heritage
These values are consistently reinforced throughout school life in various ways.
Democracy
Democracy is a cornerstone of our school ethos. At the start of each school year, children engage in discussions to establish class rules that ensure everyone can learn effectively. Our School Council is instrumental in teaching pupils how they can influence decision-making through democratic processes. Each class elects two representatives to the Council through speeches and a secret ballot. The Council meets regularly to discuss issues raised by classmates and genuinely influences change within the school. Pupils are encouraged to express their views and respect the democratic process.
The Rule of Law
Understanding and respecting laws is central to our teaching. From an early age, pupils learn the importance of rules and laws in governing and protecting us. They are taught their responsibilities and the consequences of breaking rules. This understanding is further reinforced by visits from local authorities such as the Police and Fire Service. Pupils are expected to follow a fair system where actions are always respectfully justified. We consistently emphasise the significance of laws at all levels, whether they govern the classroom, the school, or the country.
Individual Liberty
At Arden Primary, pupils are encouraged to make informed choices within a safe and supportive environment. We provide education and boundaries that empower them to understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms. Through our eSafety and PSHCE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) lessons, pupils learn how to exercise these freedoms safely. We place significant emphasis on social and emotional learning, ensuring our pupils leave us as well-rounded individuals. Achievements, both within and outside school, are celebrated in assemblies, fostering a sense of individual pride and liberty.
Mutual Respect
Mutual respect is a core value at Arden Primary School. We teach children that their behaviour impacts their own rights and the rights of others. Respect is embedded in our daily interactions and our behaviour policy, and is modelled by staff. Pupils learn to treat all members of the school community with respect and understand the importance of this value.
Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
We actively promote diversity and celebrate different faiths and cultures through our curriculum and various school activities. Religious Education (RE) and PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) lessons reinforce messages of tolerance and respect for others. We encourage members of different faiths to share their knowledge, enhancing our pupils' learning experiences. Throughout school life, children discuss differences among people, such as their faith, ethnicity, gender, or family circumstances, fostering a deep respect for diversity.
British Traditions and Heritage
We celebrate British traditions and heritage, both historically and in the present. Our pupils learn about significant national events and individuals who have shaped our country's history. We observe Royal events, Remembrance Day, and festivals such as Christmas and Easter, as well as those from other cultures like Eid, Diwali, and Chinese New Year. These celebrations help build a culture that prepares our pupils to become respectful and effective citizens.
At Arden, we are dedicated to embedding these values deeply into the fabric of our school culture, ensuring our pupils are well prepared for the future with a strong sense of identity and respect for others.