British Values
Promoting British Values at Lindens Primary School
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 Lindens these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:
Democracy
Democracy is richly embedded within the school. Pupils have many opportunities to have their voices heard through our School Council, pupil questionnaires, meetings with the Headteacher, discussions with the Senior Leadership Team and through general class debates. Pupils are listened to and are taught to listen carefully to others. They are taught to respect the right of individuals to have their voices and opinions heard and are taught to discuss issues in a calm and balanced way.
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 at lindens. 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 a regular part of our school calendar and help to reinforce this message.
Individual Liberty
Alongside rules and laws, we promote freedom of choice and the right to respectfully express views and beliefs. Pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we provide boundaries for our children to make choices safely, through the provision of a safe environment and planned curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our assemblies, PSHE curriculum and e-Safety teaching. Pupils are given the freedom to make choices, e.g. attending extra-curricular activities and supporting fund raising
Mutual Respect
Mutual respect is at the core of our school life. All pupils and staff are expected to treat each other with respect. Pupils learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others.
Toleration of those of different faiths and beliefs
At Lindens we offer a culturally rich and diverse curriculum in which all major religions are studied and respected. We strongly believe that tolerance is gained through knowledge and understanding.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.
The curriculum
The curriculum is regularly reviewed to ensure that it promotes the areas above. It also ensures that pupils are taught about key events and figures in history. Events during the year celebrate culturally diverse occasions and memorable events taking place in the country.
At Lindens Primary School we will actively challenge children, staff or parents who express opinions that are contrary to fundamental British values including extremists views.