British Values

In accordance with The Department for Education we aim to actively promote British values in schools to ensure young people leave school prepared for life in modern Britain. Pupils are encouraged to regard people of all faiths, races and cultures with respect and tolerance and understand that while different people may hold different views about what is ‘right’ and ‘wrong’, all people living in England are subject to its law.

The Key Values are:

Democracy
Rule of law
Individual liberty
Mutual respect
Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

/docs/General/british-values-for-parents-carers.pdf /docs/General/prevent-strategy-for-parents-carers.pdf

British Values Statement

The government set out their definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy. These were reinforced in Sept 2014. These new regulations will sit alongside the requirements of the Equalities Act, which also applies to all types of school.

Schools will be expected to focus on, and be able to show, how our work with pupils is effective in embedding fundamental British values.

Promoting British values

Heycroft Primary School actively promotes the Department for Education's five-part definition of British values, which include democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs. These values are integrated into various aspects of our school life, including the Social, Moral, Spiritual, and Cultural (SMSC) aspects of the curriculum, school assemblies, Religious Education (RE), and Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) lessons. Here are some examples of how we instill these values within our school community:

Democracy:

At Heycroft Primary, we ensure that every student's voice is heard and valued. Our School Council members are elected by their peers and meet regularly to discuss and address school improvement priorities.

We also have a peer-elected Eco Team. Additionally, we conduct pupil questionnaires and interviews throughout the school year to gather student perspectives.

The Rule of Law:

We teach our students the importance of rules and laws in their lives, emphasising that they are in place for valid reasons and should be followed. We help them understand that the law applies to everyone in England, protecting individual citizens and ensuring their well-being and safety.

Through RE and PSHE lessons and focused assemblies, we explore the concept of rules and laws.

Our staff consistently reinforce high expectations and the understanding that rules in school are meant to protect everyone, and there are consequences for disregarding them.

Individual Liberty:

Heycroft Primary encourages a positive culture and a safe environment where students can make choices within a supportive framework.

We empower children to select tasks that challenge them, allowing them to determine their own learning to some extent.

Mutual Respect:

Mutual respect is a fundamental aspect of daily life at Heycroft Primary, extended to both adults and students.

We create a safe and secure environment where pupils learn to treat each other, staff, and property with respect.

Our staff model and promote behaviors and attitudes that form the basis of positive relationships, and we celebrate the worth, individuality, and achievements of our students in weekly assemblies.

Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs:

Our curriculum is culturally rich and diverse, encompassing the study and respect of all major religions.

Through RE and PSHE lessons, we provide opportunities for students to develop tolerance and empathy toward individuals from diverse faiths, beliefs, and cultures.

Our goal is to nurture knowledgeable and understanding citizens who can contribute to a harmonious and inclusive Britain through our curriculum and daily school routines.

Additionally, at Heycroft Primary School, we are vigilant in actively challenging any expressions of opinions contrary to fundamental British values, including "extremist" views and principles. All staff members have undergone Prevent training to ensure the safety and well-being of our school community.