British Values
Promoting British Values at St Catherine’s
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.”
At St Catherine’s these values are reinforced regularly through topic based curriculum, school vision/values and in the following ways:
Democracy
Democracy is embedded at our school. Children are always listened to by adults and are taught to listen carefully and with concern to each other, respecting the right of every individual to have their opinions and voices heard. Pupils also have the opportunity to air their opinions and ideas through our School Council. The elections of the School Council members, house captains and sports captains are based solely on pupil votes, reflecting our British electoral system and demonstrating democracy in action.
The Rule of Law
The importance of Laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced. 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 the Police and Fire Service 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 people to make choices safely, through provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Through our broad curriculum, including our E-Safety and Heartsmart lessons and whole school worship, pupils are encouraged to know and understand their rights and personal freedoms, and exercise these safely.
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. The children know and understand that it is expected and imperative that respect is shown to everyone; whatever differences we may have, and to everything; however big or small. We expect all children to take responsibility for their actions and we develop their resilience to do this.
Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
Assemblies are regularly planned to share stories and celebrations from a variety of faiths and cultures. Our RE and PSHE teaching reinforces this. Children visit places of worship that are important to different faiths. Through this our children gain an enhanced understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society.