Promoting Fundamental British Values
At Dishforth Church of England Primary School, we take very seriously our responsibility to prepare children for life in modern Britain.
In June 2014, the DfE reinforced the need for “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.”
In line with current DfE guidance, we ensure that the fundamental British Values are introduced, discussed and lived out through the ethos and work of the school. All curriculum areas provide a vehicle for furthering understanding of these concepts and, in particular, our RE, PSHE and Citizenship lessons provide excellent opportunities to deepen and develop understanding. Educational Visits provide additional opportunities for children to develop their understanding of British Values. Children are encouraged to make links between our Core School Values and fundamental British Values.
Democracy
All children regularly take part in Class Councils and also elect representatives to the School Council through a democratic process. Children are regularly involved in democratic decisions making in their classes, eg to agree on routines, or making changes to the classroom.
Rule of Law
The importance of laws and rules are consistently reinforced in the classroom, as well as through school assemblies. Pupils are taught to understand the need for laws and that they are there for individual protection, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws and rules are broken.
Pupils follow a positive behaviour policy and clearly understand the rewards and sanctions that are used. Assemblies and discussions in class focus on recognising right from wrong
Individual Liberty
Pupils are encouraged to be independent learners and encouraged to make choices, within a safe and supportive environment. Pupils are encouraged to understand their personal freedoms and are taught how to use these rights to the best effect. Pupils regularly hold fundraising events to support charities, whether local, national or global.
Mutual Respect and Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs
Respect is a fundamental school value, around which pivots much of the work of the school. We pay explicit attention to this as part of our RE, PHSE, and SMSC curriculum. Respect is a school value that is discussed deeply, starting with self-respect and covering respect for family, friends, and other groups; the world and its people; and the environment. Our use of Restorative Practice in resolving conflict encourages pupils to develop mutual respect and tolerance of others.
The Religious Education Curriculum and Collective Worship promote the diversity of society and the right for each person to be respected and valued equally regardless of ability, gender, faith, heritage or race. Children explore different religions and faiths through RE, whilst members of different faiths or religions are invited to the school to share their knowledge and enhance learning within assemblies and in class