The DfE have 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 2011, and these values were reiterated in 2014.

At Carrington Infant School we aim for our children to become valuable and fully rounded members of society who treat others with respect and tolerance, regardless of background.

We promote the basic British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance for those with different faiths and beliefs in the following ways:

Democracy

We have a School Council with members from Reception, Year One and Year Two. These children make and present election speeches and are voted for by their class. The Council meets regularly with the Head Teacher and in the meetings the children’s views and ideas on a range of school issues are sought and they help make decisions. The council collect class views which they bring to their meetings and are involved in school projects such as the design of the KS1 playground.

The Rule of Law

Children are taught from the beginning the ‘values’ of the school. Kindness, Respect, Honesty. Pupils are taught the importance of and reasons behind our school ‘values’ and the responsibilities that this involves. Each class agrees its own class rules at the beginning of the academic year to underpin the overarching rule of ‘Behave Sensibly’. We have a variety of rewards linked to Class Dojo where children earn points.

Individual Liberty

Pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. Making choices is key part the way we want children to learn and, which children learn about through assemblies and PHSE work. Through our work we discuss different choices that the children can make and encourage them to make the right choices. We look at Online safety as a key part of the Computing curriculum and the importance making safe choices when online.

Mutual Respect

Respect is a core value. We are an inclusive school where everyone is valued and has a contribution to make to the school. We have an Additional Resource Provision for six children with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and this is very much part of the school.

 Children learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. The children and staff often work with the local Church which develops their respect for others in the wider community.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

All different faiths and beliefs are explored and celebrated through assemblies, RE sessions and a variety of visitors into school. The children are taught that people have different faiths and beliefs and that these should be accepted. Children within our school with different faiths are encouraged to share their practices and special celebrations, such as Eid.