Fundamental British Values at Appleton Thorn Primary
These are identified as:
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, mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.”
Promoting Fundamental British Values at Appleton Thorn Primary School
In accordance with The Department for Education we aim to actively promote British values in schools to ensure young people leave school prepared for life in modern Britain. Pupils are encouraged to regard people of all faiths, races and cultures with respect and tolerance and understand that while different people may hold different views about what is ‘right’ and ‘wrong’, all people living in England are subject to its law
The Key Values are:
- Democracy
- Rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Mutual respect
- Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
Democracy
Pupil voice is significant at Appleton Thorn Primary School. Our pupil elected school council plays a strong role in our school. They are elected by their class peers and are involved in making the school a better place to learn. Additionally, House Captains are elected each year by the whole school in a democratic election process. Pupils have a great amount of input in regards to what and how they learn as they decide upon the topic they would like to learn about each half term and the teachers use this to inform planning. The pupil’s voice is also heard through pupil conferencing and through pupil questionnaires. We know that the formation of the school council and the active participation of our pupils will sow the seeds for a more sophisticated understanding of democracy in the future.
The Rule of Law
Our pupils will encounter rules and laws throughout their entire lives. We want our pupils to understand that whether these laws govern the class, the school, the neighbourhood or the country, they are set for good reasons and must be adhered to.
This understanding of the importance of rules will be consistently reinforced through assemblies, in classes, around the school and through our curriculum. The involvement of our pupils in the creation of the school rules helps them to understand the reasons behind the rules and the consequences if they are broken. Through spiritual, moral, social and cultural development (SMSC) questions and circle times, we allow opportunity to debate and discuss the reasons for laws so that children can recognise the importance of these for their own protection. Throughout the year we welcome visits from members of the wider community including the 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. Opportunities for children to take more responsibility around the school are encouraged.
Individual Liberty
We invest a great deal of time in creating a positive culture in our school, so that children are in a safe environment where choices and freedoms are encouraged and valued. Pupils are given the freedom to make a variety of meaningful choices such as choosing the level of challenge they want to progress to in a lesson.
We offer a range of clubs which pupils have the freedom to choose from, based on their interests and skills. Through our E-Safety days, we educate children on their rights and personal freedoms as well as supporting them in recognising how to exercise these freedoms safely.
At Appleton Thorn Primary School, we believe that valuing choice and freedom in daily school life will foster a value for individual liberty as the children embark upon their adult lives.
Mutual respect
Mutual respect is at the core of our school life. Our behaviour policy is based on acknowleding the positive; both pupils and parents had a chance to respond to the policy prior to publication.
The children learn to treat each other and staff with great respect. This is evident when walking around the School and in the classrooms. Each class draws up a set of class rules or a class agreement each year and use this to set the tone for the level of respect that is expected throughout the year.
Through E-Safety Days and Anti- Bullying week, the children are taught to value differences in themselves and others and most importantly to show respect to all.
Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
Appleton Thorn Primary School follows the Lancashire RE agreed syllabus (agreed by Warrington WBC) which ensures that all children learn about the main religions and teaches respect and understanding for the cultures, beliefs, opinions and traditions or others. Class assemblies also help to contribute to the knowledge of special occasions, beliefs and customs.
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 who can build a better Britain for the future. We use opportunities such as the Olympics and current news and events from around the world to help the children study and learn about life and cultures in different countries.
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The School Council and Play Leaders are proactive, for example when surveying opinions about healthy eating, presenting in assemblies, writing newsletters to parents and helping to organize a fun run with parents on the running track. Other children will approach pupils on the School Council for support if needed.
(Education Consultant School Review 2019)
If you require any further information or paper copies, please contact Mrs Jones our British Values lead via the school office on 01925 266764 or email appletonthorn_primary@warrington.gov.uk