British Values

The DfE states that there is a need ‘to create and enforce clear and rigorous expectations on all schools to promote the fundamental British values of democracy; the rule of law; individual liberty; 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. At Whitehill Primary School, these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways.

Democracy

Pupils are always listened to by adults and taught to listen carefully and with concern to each other, respecting the right of every individual to have their opinions and voices heard. School Council Representatives, Year 6 School Ambassadors and Peer Mentors are elected by fellow students. Those students who are interested in being considered must form and present their manifesto to voters. The election process mirrors our British electoral system and demonstrates democracy in action.

The Rule of Law

The importance of laws, whether they are those that govern the class, the school or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout our school day, through our school assemblies and also when dealing with behaviour in school. We encourage our pupils to distinguish right from wrong and help pupils to understand that living under the rule of law protects individuals. At the start of each academic year, the children are encouraged to help shape their classroom rules. This process tests and develops their understanding of the need for rules. Our pupils are taught the value and reason behind laws; that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken.

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 our pupils to make choices safely, through the provision of a safe environment and an empowering education. We support pupils to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence. Our pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely; examples can be seen through our PSHE and online safety lessons. We implement a strong anti-bullying culture within the school.

Mutual Respect

Respect is promoted across the school and it is deeply embedded in all that we do. The pupils 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.
The core value of respect at Whitehill Primary, underpins our work every day both in and out of the classroom. Our children are given regular opportunities to learn within their community and beyond and each time, an emphasis is placed on respecting those with whom they come into contact with and their surroundings. Celebrating and recognising that differences enrich life.

Tolerance of those with Different Faiths or Beliefs

With mutual respect comes tolerance. Our curriculum has been designed to widen the students' knowledge of the world. Whitehill Primary School enhances pupils’ understanding of different faiths and beliefs through Religious Education, Personal Social Health Education and enrichment work. Whilst learning, we encourage the children to appreciate difference and the richness that it gives to society.