The DofE states that there is a 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.’

At Springcroft Primary School, we take our responsibility to prepare children for life in modern Britain very seriously. We value the ethnic backgrounds of all pupils and families and undertake a variety of events and lessons to celebrate and explore these alongside other cultures in our country.

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 the values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect, tolerance and understanding of those with different faiths and beliefs.

The school makes considerable efforts to ensure children have a wide range of experiences beyond their local community. For example, sporting events, school trips, residential stays, assemblies and workshops led by a range of visitors to our school.  Their strong-rooted, values-based understanding gives them an excellent platform for their personal development and embracing difference.

Democracy

At Springcroft, we actively promote democracy and ensure that every child at Springcroft Primary School has a say in what happens in their school. All pupils can voice their opinions and have their views taken into account to make a difference to our school.  At the beginning of each academic year, all children in KS1 and KS2 have the opportunity to elect two representatives from their class to be part of the School Council.  In addition, the children also vote for the captains and vice -captains who will represent their school team for the year. 

The principle of democracy is explored in the curriculum as well as during assemblies and special days/weeks, such as UK Parliament Week.

The Rule of Law

At the beginning of every academic year, the children in each class produce a set of class rules that they agree to follow. They understand how their actions and the actions of others have consequences and they learn to distinguish between right and wrong. They understand why rules apply to everyone and how rules are essential for the well-being and safety of us all. 

Individual Liberty

Within school, pupils are actively encouraged and given the freedom to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. For example, they choose which extra-curricular clubs they would like to take part in.

Children are given responsibility to lead other children in games and activities so that they are fully involved in all aspects of school life. For instance, some of our older children are play leaders or well-being champions, and they help to promote our core values.  

Through PSHE lessons, SRE education and E-safety lessons, children are taught about their individual rights and choices and how to exercise these safely.  Stereotypes are challenged and difference is celebrated.  We expect all our children to be excellent role models for each other, which is encouraged through high expectations of behaviour.

Mutual Respect and Tolerance of Others

Throughout our curriculum (particularly the RE and PSHE curriculum) as well as through carefully planned assemblies, children are taught about different cultures and ways of life.  This ensures they develop an understanding and respect for everyone. Children are encouraged to discuss the differences between people, including faith, ethnicity, disability, gender and differences in family situations. Staff and pupils are encouraged to challenge any prejudice or discriminatory behaviour. Our weekly ‘Picture News’ class-based assemblies also help our children to develop an awareness and understanding of the protected characteristics.