Promoting British Values

British Values Statement

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. The DfE has reinforced the need 'to create and enforce a clear and rigorous expectation on all schools to promote the fundamental British values.'

These are:

• Democracy
• The rule of law
• Individual liberty
• Mutual respect
• Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

We believe that Christian values and British values are not mutually exclusive. The recognition that all people are to be valued regardless of beliefs, background or ethnic origin is reflected in our Equality Statement and rooted in the school’s Mission Statement and Aims.

St Bernard’s actively promotes British values in many ways, including:

Democracy:

Democratic values are an explicit part of the ethos at St. Bernard’s. All adults listen to the views of the pupils and value their opinions. Class charters are agreed by the children at the start of the school year. Pupils have further opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Council and Pupil Voice interviews. The elections of School Council are the result of pupil votes and these groups canvas the opinions of their peers.

The Rule of Law:

The importance of laws and rules are consistently reinforced in the classroom, as well as through school assemblies. Pupils follow a positive behaviour policy and clearly understand the rewards and sanctions that are used.  Clear policies and procedures are in place to tackle behaviour and attitudes which are contrary to the school’s expectations.  Our RE and PHSE curriculum helps children to distinguish between right and wrong, as well as the importance or honesty and forgiveness.

Individual Liberty:

Pupils are encouraged to be independent learners, constantly making choices, within a safe and supportive environment. Developing their self-esteem and self-confidence is very important. Pupils are encouraged to understand their personal freedoms and are taught how to use these rights to best effect. All pupils are keen to support charities, whether local, national or global. They are taught consideration for others through our Religious Education curriculum and PSHE lessons in particular. E-safety teaching enables them to make choices in a safe manner.

Mutual Respect:

Our school’s ethos and behaviour policy are based on Gospel values, with the important commandment being, ‘Love one another as I have loved you’. Assemblies constantly promote respect for others and the importance of good manners.  All pupils are taught the importance of self-respect, honest and open communication with others and fair play. Pupils work collaboratively and value others’ opinions.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs:

As a Catholic worshipping community, pupils are reminded of their place in a culturally diverse society. This is achieved through our Religious Education curriculum and the spiritual life of the school. Study of other faiths in RE, include members of different faiths or religions invited to school to share their knowledge and enhance learning within assemblies and in class.  Special assemblies and liturgies that promote reflection on tolerance and respect, such as Remembrance and Anti-Bullying.  Active support of charities, both in Britain and overseas, raise the children’s awareness of the differences and inequalities in the world, and of our shared basic needs for food, shelter, safety and love.

We also celebrate events of national and international significance, such as Remembrance Day, Olympics and sporting events, The Queens’ Jubilee, the King's Coronation, Year of Faith, and saints' days.