British Values​

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The Government emphasises that schools are required to ensure that key ‘British Values’ are taught in all UK schools.  The government set out its definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy.

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The British Values are:

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• Democracy

• The rule of law

• Individual liberty

• Mutual respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

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Democracy

Statement:

Many of our school routines are built upon the concept of democracy. All students have opportunity as an individual, as a member of a tutor group and within subject departments, to influence decision making and have a voice. They understand that they must use this voice responsibly. Students are regularly consulted both formally and informally about how their school might be improved. They see the example that is set with staff working cooperatively with each other to make the school the best it can be.

 

In practice:

Students within the school have key roles and responsibilities and are democratically elected to take on leadership roles. They understand that they are accountable to the school community for the way in which they carry out these roles. Our student council allows students to explore and understand the democratic process, how to work as a member of a team are included in PSHE and tutor. Formal and informal consultations take place throughout the school year. Students receive feedback and are made aware of any actions that are taken as a result.

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The Rule of Law

Statement:

Students in our school understand the need for rules to make ours a happy and secure environment. Our behaviour policy is shared and understood and this provides a basis on which we discuss other laws and rules and how they apply. Ground rules are established in all areas of the curriculum and students are encouraged to see the reasons for them.

 

In practice:

Our school works closely with Hampshire Constabulary. We set ground rules during classes where sensitive issues are discussed. ICT lessons include discussions around data protection and our esafety codes of conduct. Every tutor regularly discusses the school code of conduct with their tutor. Although some of these are set, others are not and students are encouraged to make their own contributions to the way in which the rules can be applied. School sanctions are clearly established and shared. Tutor group sanctions are discussed and agreed within the tutor group. In PSHE students learn about the legal system in the UK.

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Individual Liberty

Statement:

The rights of every student are at the centre of our ethos. However, students must also recognise the boundaries there must be to. Independent thinking and learning encouraged and there are frequent opportunities for students to grow in maturity and independence as they move towards Year 11. We place emphasis on respecting difference and valuing creativity.

 

In practice:

Each year group studies the individual biography of someone who has had a particular impact on the history of Britain and who the students can empathise with. We try to select from a range of cultures. ‘Human Rights’ is a topic included in our PSHE curriculum. We discuss what it means to ‘contribute to society’ and discuss what it means to be ‘free’.

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Mutual Respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

Statement:

Respect is one of our school values. We recognise the importance of not only respecting one another but also self-respect. We have a clear anti-bullying policy which emphasises the importance of us creating an environment both within school and the wider world in which individuals can feel safe and valued. Our welcome to visitors is part of our ethos as is the focus on each student as an ‘ambassador’ when they are in the community. Every individual is respected in our school and our actions towards one another reflect this. We welcome difference and diversity and aim to create understanding of how this adds to the richness of the community. We aim to do more than ‘tolerate’ those with different faiths and beliefs. We recognise the extent to which our own traditions and history have developed side by side and the rich cultural heritage that different world religions bring. We believe that by exploring and understanding other peoples faiths and beliefs are rewarding experiences and help us understand our own faiths and beliefs better

 

In practice:

Our PSHE curriculum includes topics on relationships and what a good relationship consists of. Our extra-curricular activities focus on building selfesteem and self-respect. They also include team building activities. The staff code of conduct ensures that staff behave towards each other in an exemplary way, setting a good example for the students. The language used between staff and students at all times is considered to be vital in showing how we show respect to one another. Our RE curriculum teaches about a range of faiths, religions and cultures. We visit local religious buildings and places of interest, respecting the rules that apply to them and the beliefs of those who use them. Students are familiar with the principles which different religions hold and explore the main world religions. We take the opportunity to find out more about different cultures we encounter through research and discussion. We encourage those in our school who hold different faith and beliefs to share their experiences and provide us with insight

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