Promoting British Values at Flushdyke Junior and Infant School
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.”
At Flushdyke, these British Values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:
Democracy
Our pupil elected Leadership Groups play a strong role in our school. Groups such as the Head Girl/Boy Team are elected by their class peers. We know that the formation of such groups 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. At Flushdyke, 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 by assemblies and the curriculum. Pupils are allowed the opportunity to discuss and debate the reasons for laws so children can recognise the importance of these for their own protection.
Individual Liberty
At Flushdyke, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school, we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make informed choices, through a safe environment and an empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our weekly One Life lessons.
Mutual Respect
Mutual respect is at the heart of our values. Children learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community treat each other with respect.
Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
At Flushdyke, we offer a culturally rich and diverse curriculum in which all major religions are studied and respected. We strongly believe that tolerance is gained through knowledge and understanding. Through our curriculum and routines of daily school life, we strive to demonstrate tolerance and help children at Flushdyke to become knowledgeable and understanding citizens who can build a better Britain for the future.