British Values at Lings Primary School

The government set out their definition of British Values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy.

These were reinforced in September 2014 due to events at the time. These regulations sit alongside the requirements of the Equalities Act, which also applies to all types of school (Single Equality Policy).

Schools are expected to focus on, and be able to show, how our work with pupils is effective in embedding fundamental British values.

British values are defined as:

• democracy
• the rule of law
• individual liberty
• mutual respect
• tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

At Lings Primary, pupils will encounter these principles throughout everyday school life.

The curriculum is mapped in detail across the whole school. There are some examples below of how we promote these values in our school community:

Democracy

Pupil voice is significant in regards to life at Lings Primary School.  Our School Council Team plays a strong role in our school. They are elected by their class peers and are involved in making Lings Primary better place to learn. Pupil meetings are conducted throughout the year. We know that the formation of School Council Team and the active participation of our pupils will sow the seeds for a more sophisticated understanding of democracy in the future.

The Rule of Law

Our pupils will encounter rules and laws throughout their entire lives. We want our pupils to understand that whether these laws govern the class, the school, the neighbourhood, or the country, they are set for good reasons and must be adhered to.This understanding of the importance of rules will be consistently reinforced through assemblies and our curriculum. The involvement of our pupils in the creation of the school rules helps them to understand the reasons behind the rules and the consequences if they are broken. In lessons we allow opportunity to debate and discuss the reasons for laws so that children can recognise the importance of these for their own protection. Throughout the year we welcome visits from members of the wider community including police, many more. We believe that clear explanations and real-life stories emphasise the importance of the rule of law for our pupils.

Individual Liberty

We invest a great deal of time in creating a positive culture in our school, so that children are in a safe environment where choices and freedoms are encouraged. We offer a range of clubs which pupils have the freedom to choose from, based on their interests and we educate children on their rights and personal freedoms as well as supporting them in recognising how to exercise these freedoms safely. At Lings Primary we believe that valuing choice and freedom in daily school life will foster a value for individual liberty as the children embark upon their adult lives.

Mutual Respect

Mutual respect is at the core of our school life. Pupils learn to treat each other and staff with great respect. This is evident when walking around Lings Primary and in the classrooms.