PROMOTING BRITISH VALUES IN
DODDINGHURST INFANT SCHOOL
At Doddinghurst Infant School children become part of a friendly cooperative environment, where there is an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust. Every child is made to feel that they have a vitally important role to play in the life of the school, where their achievements are recognised and acknowledged. The whole school community has the responsibility to work together to create a positive learning atmosphere, where all show self-discipline, self-control and respect. We encourage all stakeholders to feel a sense of community through our shared 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 were reiterated by the Government in 2014
At Doddinghurst Infant School these values are regularly promoted through high quality teaching throughout the curriculum, a rounded programme of assemblies and a positive behaviour policy. Fundamental British values are also promoted through our Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) development of pupils.
This gives pupils opportunities to develop and demonstrate skills and attitudes that will allow them to participate fully in and contribute positively to life in modern Britain.
DEMOCRACY
We listen to the voice of our school family. Our school behaviour policy is clear that children are expected to contribute and co-operate, taking into account the views of others.
We have a school council which consists of two members from each class, EYFS, Year 1 and Year 2. Meetings are fortnightly and children hold council meetings in their classes to share ideas and express an opinion. They have recently been very instrumental in decisions about additions to our outdoor area and website. House captain and Vice-captain are elected by their house following a presentation explaining why they should be chosen. Pupil perception surveys are carried out by a group of Governors.
RULE OF LAW
From entry to school, pupils are continually taught to recognise the difference between right and wrong and this, alongside their developing maturity, helps them to apply their understanding of these concepts in their daily lives.
In each class there is a visual reminder of the rules agreed by the class at the beginning of the academic year. We have a behaviour policy which has a consistent approach using the visual system of the sun and clouds. We consistently reinforce our high expectations of children. Children are taught the value and reasons behind our expectations (rules) and that they are there to protect us, that everyone has a responsibility and that there are consequences when rules are broken.
INDIVIDUAL LIBERTY
Within our school children are encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment to enable them to do this. Through our curriculum we discuss different choices that are available to the children and encourage them to make the right choices. Our behaviour policy also gives an excellent forum for staff to discuss the choices (both good and bad) that pupils make about their behaviour in school. It is used to encourage pupils to reflect on their choices and the effect that it has on both their peers and adults. They are given opportunities to resolve conflicts effectively and fairly. Through E-safety we teach the importance of keeping yourself safe by choosing not to share personal information.
MUTUAL RESPECT
Our whole school ethos is built around mutual respect and we believe that respect for others is a vital component of moral development. We are an inclusive school where everyone is valued and has a contribution to make. Children learn that their behaviour has an effect on their own rights and those of others.
We encourage open discussions in all areas but particularly in lessons which promote citizenship such as Circletime and School House team meetings. Staff help children to understand how to show respect by talking about how actions/words can affect others.
We actively support all to develop their own reasoned views about moral and ethical issues.
TOLERANCE OF THOSE OF DIFFERENT FAITHS AND BELIEFS
Assemblies are planned to give children opportunity to reflect on a variety of beliefs, cultures and moral values. Our curriculum incorporates teaching and learning opportunities for children to explore aspects of the wider world and an appreciation of cultural diversity, exploring ways others may celebrate a variety of special times and where and how people worship. The RE curriculum is carefully planned to equip children with the knowledge which will enable them to understand the diverse nature of peoples’ beliefs. We help them to understand, accept, respect and celebrate diversity.
