The Government set out its definition of British Values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy, and these values have been reiterated this year 2014. The British Values are: Democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs. At Sheredes Primary and Nursery these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:
Democracy
Each year children decide upon their Class Charter/Golden Rules and the rights and responsibilities associated with these. All the children contribute to the drawing up of the rules.
We have a School Council which meets at least twice every half term with the Head teacher. They report back on school issues discussed in class meetings. Examples of issues include the selection of activities for our Themed Weeks.
Reception children have weekly ‘chat mat’ meetings and termly pupil conferences to voice their thoughts with regards to their learning. Children in other year groups have annual questionnaires where they are able to put forward their views about the school.
The Rule of Law
The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced at Sheredes Primary School.
Pupils are taught from an early age the rules of the school, reflected in our behaviour policy and in our class charter/golden rules, playground rules and safety rules. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind rules and laws; that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves, and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as Cycle training instructors help reinforce this message. Year 6 participate in junior citizenship workshops run by the local authority, which include the police, fire, and health, the ‘Crucial Crew’.
Individual Liberty
At Sheredes Primary and Nursery children are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for children to make informed choices, through a safe environment and an empowering education. Children are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and they are advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our eSafety and PSHE &C lessons.
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
At Sheredes Primary School we believe diversity is a strength. We actively promote diversity through our celebration of different faiths and cultures. Religious Education lessons and PSHE &C lessons reinforce messages of tolerance and respect for others. Members of different faiths and religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes and the school. The children visit places of worship that are important to different faiths.
