British Values
The British Values at The Federation of Bursledon Schools
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 in 2014.
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How we are meeting these |
Democracy |
Democracy is an important part of how we operate at The Federation of Bursledon Schools. An example of this is our School Council . The election of the School Council and Eco Warrior members reflects our British electoral system and demonstrates democracy in action: candidates make speeches, children consider characteristics important for an elected representative and children have the opportunity to vote for who they would like elected. The School Council and Eco Warriors meet regularly to discuss issues raised by the different classes. These meetings have a significant impact on change within the school. The Eco Warrior group meet regularly to discuss how, as a school, we can be more environmentally friendly. |
Rule of law |
The importance of Laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced every day, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through school assemblies and collective worship. At the beginning of every half term, in every class, children agree their class secrets of success; all children contribute and evaluate the class achievement at the end of each half term. |
Individual Liberty |
Children have many opportunities for their voices to be heard in our school community. Our Life Lessons creates space for enquiry, allowing children to learn how to think independently, reason effectively, communicate persuasively and explore their values. Children have a safe space to discuss views on a wide range of topics. |
Mutual respect |
Mutual respect is at the heart of our values. Children learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community treat each other with respect. |
Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs |
We place a great emphasis on promoting the importance of tolerance with the children and celebrating difference. Assemblies are planned to address this issue either directly or through the inclusion of stories and celebrations from a variety of faiths and cultures. Although our Collective Worships are predominantly Christian, our RE, PSHE and teaching reinforce tolerance of others and explore different faiths, cultures and backgrounds. Members of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes and the school. Through our personal, social and health education (PSHE) we raise children’s self-esteem, value those around them and enhance their sense of well-being. We will actively challenge children, staff or parents expressing opinions contrary to fundamental British Values, including ‘extremist’ views where appropriate. School staff undertake PREVENT training on a regular basis. |