British Values

Fundamental British Values at Offa's Mead Academy

British Values

“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 the 2011 Prevent Strategy, and these values have been reiterated by the Prime Minister.

These values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:

Democracy

We promote Democratic rule throughout the school. We operate a Restorative Justice approach to disputes and fall outs where everyone has the right to have their voice heard and to be able to decide how to move forward. Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our very active Pupil Leadership Team and through talking to senior leaders about aspects of their learning and life in school. The council contribute their opinions and ideas which allow them to be genuinely able to effect change within the school. Every child on the Pupil Leadership Team is voted in by their year group. Castle Captains are voted in by their House Group.

Examples within school:

The Rule of Law

The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced. Pupils are taught from an early age the rules of the school. Pupils 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 and Fire Service are regular parts of our calendar and help reinforce this message. We also welcome in local MPs and have visits to promote democracy and the role of the government through workshops and assemblies.

Examples within school:

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 young pupils to make choices safely, through our provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advise how to exercise these safely, for example through our e-Safety and PSHCE lessons. They also understand that with rights come responsibilities.

Examples within school:

Mutual Respect:

Mutual respect is at the heart of our values. Children learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community treat each other with respect.

Examples within school:

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs:

This is achieved through enhancing pupils understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity.  We actively promote diversity through our celebrations of different faiths and cultures. Religious Education lessons and PSHE lessons reinforce messages of tolerance and respect for others and allow the children to explore places of worship that are important to different faiths.

Examples within school