British Values at Buriton Primary School

British Values Statement

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.”

Buriton Primary School is committed to serving its community and surrounding areas. It recognises the multi-cultural, multi-faith and ever-changing nature of the United Kingdom, and therefore those it serves. It also understands the vital role it has in ensuring that groups or individuals within the school are not subjected to intimidation or radicalisation by those wishing to unduly, or illegally, influence them.

The school, accepts admissions from all those entitled to an education under British law, including pupils of all faiths or none. It follows the policies outlined by its governing body regarding equal opportunities, which guarantee that there will be no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar. It seeks to serve all.

The Government emphasises that schools are required to ensure that key ‘British Values’ are taught in all UK schools. The government set out its definition of British values in the ‘Prevent Strategy’ – values of:

• Democracy
• The rule of law
• Individual liberty
• Mutual respect
• Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs  

Democracy

Democracy is common within the school where the promotion of democratic processes, fostering the concept and application of freedom of speech and group action to address needs and concerns, are heard through our School Council. To inspire our children we have invited our local MP to talk to the children and answer their questions, we visit  the town hall and see where decisions are made and how the town council works. Our junior children also visit the Houses of Parliament. 

The Rule of Law

The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout regular school days, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through school assemblies. The values of trust and respect are used to help children understand the importance of laws. Children 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 authorities such as the Police, Fire Service etc. are regular parts of our calendar and 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. Philosophy For Children (P4C) sessions are used to promote philosophical thinking through discussions and debates. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make choices safely, through provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Children are encouraged to take risks and develop the confidence to ‘have a go’ and so increase the chances of experiencing success. Our pupils thrive on challenge, and there is high participation in our numerous extra-curricular clubs and opportunities. All pupils are given the freedom to make choices.

Mutual Respect

The concept of mutual respect is reiterated through the curriculum, in our ethos and is demonstrated in every aspect of school life, from the school and classroom rules, as well as our behaviour policy. Additional support is provided for individual pupils, through our trained ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) who provides pastoral support. This support helps to develop self-esteem and to practise strategies pupils can employ to help improve their respect of others.

Understanding of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

Buriton Primary School enhances pupils understanding of different faiths and beliefs through religious education studies.

British Values Week

What a fantastic week we have had! Look below to find out more!