British Values

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 were reiterated by the Government in 2014.

At Hartford Infant School these values are regularly promoted through high quality teaching, a rounded programme of assemblies and a positive behaviour policy. Fundamental British values are also promoted through our Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) development of pupils.

This gives pupils opportunities to develop and demonstrate skills and attitudes that will allow them to participate fully in and contribute positively to life in modern Britain.

Democracy

We listen to children’s and parents voice. Our school behaviour policy is clear; that children are expected to contribute and co-operate, taking into account the views of others.

We have a school council which consists of two members from each class who are nominated and elected. Previous Council members have been instrumental in Big Conversations on Marking and Feedback and lunchtimes.

Rule of Law

From entry to school pupils are continually taught to recognise the difference between right and wrong and this, alongside their developing maturity, helps them to apply their understanding of these concepts in their daily lives.

We have a behaviour policy which includes the use of a Conflict Resolution script and Peer Mediators. We consistently reinforce our high expectations of children. Children are taught the value and reasons behind our expectations (rules); that they are there to protect us, that everyone has a responsibility and that there are consequences when rules are broken.

Individual Liberty

Within our school children are encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment to enable them to do this. Through our SMSC sessions we discuss different choices that the children can make and encourage them to make the right choices. Through E-safety we teach the importance of keeping yourself safe by choosing not to share personal information.

Mutual respect

Our whole school ethos is built around mutual respect and we believe that respect for others is a vital component of moral development. We are an inclusive school where everyone is valued and has a contribution to make to the school. Children learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others.

We encourage open discussions in all areas but particularly in lessons which promote citizenship, such as SEAL and Circletime. Staff help children to understand how to respect by talking about how actions/words can affect others.

We actively support all to develop their own reasoned views about moral and ethical issues.

Tolerance of those of different Faiths and Beliefs

Assemblies are planned to give children opportunity to reflect of a variety of beliefs, cultures and moral values. Our curriculum incorporates teaching and learning opportunities for children to explore aspects of the wider world and an appreciation of cultural diversity as in for example – Festivals, Divali and Chinese New Year. The RE curriculum is also carefully planned to equip children with the knowledge which will enable them to understand the diverse nature of people's beliefs. We help them to understand, accept, respect and celebrate diversity.       

Bringing out the Best in Everyone