Promoting British Values
"Pupils are prepared well for life in modern British society. Leaders ensure that pupils are given opportunities to learn about important issues such as tolerance and the rule of law." School Ofsted Report, June 2019
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 Harpenden Academy these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:
Democracy
Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Council, Eco Council, House System and pupil questionnaires. The annual elections of both School and Eco Council are based solely on pupil votes. Our school behaviour policy and class rules are created entirely on the children thoughts and voted on in family groups. The naming of the school dog was through a woof- a- rendum which the children had voting slips.
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, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through school assemblies. 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 etc. 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 and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make choices safely, through the provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advise how to exercise these safely, for example through our E-Safety and PSHE lessons. Whether it be through their choice in the level of challenge in their work, or their participation in our numerous extra-curricular clubs and opportunities, pupils are given the freedom to make choices.
Mutual Respect
Part of our school ethos and behaviour policy and Values based education very much focus on the area of respect. Pupils have been part of discussions and assemblies related to what this means. Respect is promoted through our PSHE curriculum; is embedded in our buddy groups, where older children actively develop supportive relationships with younger pupils; and is reiterated through our behaviour management strategy.
Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
This is achieved through enhancing pupils understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society, and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity. Assemblies and discussions are supported by learning in RE and PSHE. Members of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes and the school
