British Values
Promoting British Values
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.” The government set out its definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy and these values have been reiterated by the Prime Minister this year. At Rise Carr College these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:
Democracy:
Democracy is richly embedded within the school. Students have the opportunity to have their voices heard by the ease of access to Senior Staff members, regular contact with parents and carers, the strong pastoral system, student questionnaires or voicing their opinions via the head boy or head girl. Our behaviour policy involves rewards and consequences; this is shared through all aspects of school life and also shared with parents, carers and students.
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. Students 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.
Individual Liberty:
Within school, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. We educate and provide boundaries for all pupils to make choices safely, through provision of a safe environment and an empowering approach through the education. Students are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our E-Safety and PSHE discussion. Students are further empowered through being part of a community which link directly to the senior leadership team or governors.
Mutual Respect:
Mutual respect is one of our core values taught throughout the college. We aim to develop understanding and encourage by adults within the school modelling, demonstrating, promoting and showing respect for others. Staff will challenge negative/misconstrued behaviours, attitudes and beliefs. Students are taught what this mutual respect and are encouraged, praised and rewarded when they display appropriate behaviours.
Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs:
Students have unique opportunities to learn from each other by sharing and celebrating their different faiths and cultures. In class discussions involving prejudices and prejudice-based bullying have been followed up and supported by learning throughout the curriculum. Different faiths or religions are discussed and students are given opportunities to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes and the school.