How do we teach British values?
What are ‘fundamental British values’?
Schools are required to provide for the spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development of their pupils. As part of this requirement, we are expected to actively promote fundamental British values.
The government defines these as:
- Democracy
- The rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs
What does this look like in school?
The values are reflected throughout our school, including in our ethos, practices and assemblies. Children also engage with the values through the curriculum in ways that are suitable for their age and context.
For example, in some subjects there are opportunities to think about traditions from different cultures and religions. In the early years it may involve something as simple as sharing and taking turns; listening to one another and learning to be a good friend.
Extracurricular activities such as games and sporting events teach children about the importance of rules. Pupil votes (e.g. for their School Council representatives), questionnaires and class discussions are other ways that children can have their voices heard and learn about democracy.
Our duty to actively promote fundamental British values means that we always present political views to children in a balanced way. We are also responsible for challenging prejudiced or extreme opinions and behaviour. Please feel free to contact the school if you would like more information about this.
We promote British values through our assemblies.
We promote British values through texts in literacy. Here are some examples:
Find out about the WIRE award here
As part of a whole school diversity project, every year group learnt about a different country and its culture. The children produced different crafts to celebrate the culture they were exploring.
