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. At Brierley School these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:

Democracy:

Democracy is evident throughout the school. Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Council and Pupil Questionnaires and surveys. The elections of School Councillors are based solely on pupil nominations.

The Rule of Law:

The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout regular school days, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through school assemblies. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as the police and fire service are regular parts of our calendar and help reinforce this message. The school’s rules are displayed in every classroom across the school and are understood by all adults and children.

Individual Liberty:

Within school, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make choices safety, through of provision of a safe environment and empowering education. 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 PSHCE lessons. Pupils are given the freedom to make choices, for example, whether it be through choice of challenge, of how they record or by choosing to participate in our numerous extra-curricular clubs and opportunities.

Mutual Respect:

Part of our school ethos and behaviour policy revolve 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. The school ethos and aims promote respect for others and this is reiterated through classroom practice, school rules and our behaviour policy.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs:

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 bullying have been followed and supported by learning in RE and PSHCE. Children are encouraged to learn about other religions and cultures through all areas of the curriculum. Differences are actively reflected in all areas of school life.