British Values

The Department for Education has emphasised that key British values must be taught in all UK schools and defined these values as:

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

We recognise the multi-cultural, multi-faith and ever-changing nature of Hackney and the United Kingdom, and understands the role we have in ensuring that our school upholds and promotes these values.

We accept admissions from all those entitled to an education under British law, including pupils of all faiths or none. We follow the policies outlined by our 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.

British values are promoted as an intrinsic part of our school culture and curriculum. The list below outlines some examples of when and where such British values are shared.

Democracy

• Children are involved in democratic processes such as class and school councils, making decisions at a class and whole school level
• Our Behaviour Policy reinforces the importance of social responsibility and fairness.

The Rule of Law

• Children are taught about responsibility and the importance of rules and consequences
• Children have opportunities to reflect on their learning, behaviour and safety
• Visits from the police, fire service and other key workers to help to reinforce these messages.

Individual Liberty

• Children are encouraged to make choices within a safe, supportive environment
• Children are encouraged to have an understanding of their personal rights and freedoms (e.g. through our teaching of e-Safety and personal, social, health, economical)
• Children are encouraged to take on responsibilities and be responsible.

Mutual Respect

• Our school ethos promotes the importance of mutual respect and tolerance
• Assemblies, class and whole school behaviour expectations reinforce respect
• Our physical education reinforces the importance of fair play. We celebrate and reward success, promote the importance of being magnanimous in defeat and participate in activities that promote teamwork and collaboration.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

• We aim to teach children to have an understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity
• We plan visits away from the school and visitors to the school so that we are able to broaden the children’s cultural experience
• Our religious education curriculum ensures that children have a balanced understanding of different faiths and beliefs
• Some of our curriculum topics celebrate different cultures, faiths and beliefs.