“We want every school to promote the basic British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance for those of different faiths and beliefs.” Lord Nash
At Hollinsclough, we actively promote British values throughout our school and within the curriculum, to help develop our pupils towards becoming fully rounded members of society who treat others with respect, and who are prepared for life in modern Britain. Pupils are encouraged to treat people of all faiths, races and cultures with respect and tolerance, and to 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. Our staff act as positive role models and display these values in all of our actions and interactions.
The Key British Values are:
- democracy
- rule of law
- individual liberty
- mutual respect
- tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
Democracy – what do we do?
- The pupils vote for their house captains and vice captains each year
- We provide pupils with a broad general knowledge of, and promote respect for, public institutions and services
- We teach pupils about how they can influence decision-making through taking part in the democratic process
- We teach democracy through assemblies and in our school curriculum whenever possible
- We encourage pupils to become involved in decision-making processes and ensure they are listened to in school
- We help pupils to express their views
- We model how perceived injustice can be peacefully challenged
- Pupils vote on which after school clubs we should try to provide
- Pupils vote on trips/visits/activities for our annual Outdoor Week
Rule of law – what do we do?
- We ensure school rules and expectations are clear and fair and that the children agree with these
- We celebrate those who adhere to our Class rules
- We help pupils to distinguish right from wrong
- We help pupils to respect the law and the basis on which it is made
- We help pupils to understand that living under the rule of law protects us
- We explore what to do if peer pressure is trying to persuade children to break the values and laws (for example during PSHE lessons)
- We promote the UN Rights of the Child (around school, in assemblies etc)
Individual liberty – what do we do?
- We support pupils to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem, self-confidence
- We encourage pupils to take responsibility for their behaviour and help them to understand how to make good choices
- We challenge stereotypes and bias
- We implement a strong anti-bullying culture
- We ensure that through e-safety lessons, children can stay safe online
Mutual Respect and tolerance of different cultures and religions– what do we do?
- We use assemblies to explore important and relevant topics (e.g. Black Lives Matter etc);
- We explore and celebrate positive role models through our topics and assemblies
- We challenge prejudicial or discriminatory behaviour
- We organise visits to places of worship
- Through RE lessons, we ensure that our children have a good understanding of a range of religious beliefs and their festivals and customs
- We help pupils to acquire an understanding of, and respect for, their own and other cultures and ways of life
