British Values at Chandos

Promoting British Values at Chandos

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 have been reiterated by the Prime Minister this year. At Chandos these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:

Democracy:

Democracy is a rich element within the school. Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Council. Pupil Questionnaires are also circulated to gather children’s perceptions of school life. The elections of House Captains and School Counselors are based solely on pupil votes. Our school behaviour policy involves rewards which the pupils vote on as a class group.

The Rule of Law:

The importance of Laws or rules, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout the school day, as well as when dealing with behaviour and children’s individual choices. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws and rules, that they are followed in order to keep us safe. They are encouraged to develop an awareness of the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws or rules are broken. Regular visits from authorities such as the Police and Fire Service are regular parts of our calendar and help reinforce this message.

Individual Liberty:

Within school, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe, secure 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 are given advice and have opportunities to discuss how to exercise these safely, for example through our E-Safety and PSHE lessons. Whether it be through choice of challenge, of participation in our extra-curricular clubs and opportunities, pupils are given the freedom to make choices.

Mutual Respect:

As a school welcoming children and families from across the globe, mutual respect is at the heart of our values. Children learn that their behaviors 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:

Chandos serves a highly diverse community with cultures, faiths and people from across the globe. We place a great emphasis on ensuring all children are part of a broad range of multicultural celebrations throughout the year. We enhance pupils’ understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society, giving them opportunities to experience, discuss and share their own faiths and beliefs. We place a great emphasis on the responsibility that all children have in our school to ensure all new comers to our school are made to feel welcome, safe and secure.