British Values

British Values at Edward Betham

• Democracy
• The rule of law
• Individual liberty and personal responsibility
• Mutual respect and tolerance of those of different cultures, faiths and beliefs

At Edward Betham, we actively promote British values through our school ethos, agreed rules, curriculum and teaching in the following ways:

Our Democracy and Justice Week includes trips to the Houses of Parliament, the Royal Courts of Justice and a Year 2 election.

Democracy

Through our ethos and systems, we aim to ensure that pupils share their views and help to shape the work of the school. For example, the House Captains, School Councillors and Year 2 Prefects are voted for by pupils and take a lead role at school. This year, these pupils will co-lead our new cross-year group curriculum days. Staff encourage positive engagement in debates through Circle Time, English lessons and Collective Worship. Also, teachers ensure that pupils are listened to when they express their opinions on a range of topics in lessons and our daily ‘Time to Think’.

The Rule of Law

Our Golden Rules and Class Rules, written by pupils, underpin our Behaviour for Learning Policy. We learn about and celebrate the British Royal Family. Rules are followed consistently, so that pupils understand the importance of them as a means to keep them safe. Restorative Practice is used as a structure to improve pupil understanding of justice and the rights of themselves and others, and Reflection Club provides the time and space to do this. Visits from the police and participation in Junior Citizens’ Day in Year 6 help prepare our oldest pupils for transition to high school.

Personal Responsibility and Individual Liberty

Within school, children are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. In class they can choose the level of challenge in their learning. They are taught how to make healthy choices to improve their lifestyle. We encourage the children to express and justify their opinions; exercising their rights and personal freedoms. As a school, we celebrate every individual and ensure that their voice is heard and valued. Pupils suggest and lead presentations during worship, and many clubs and fundraising activities.

Mutual Respect and Tolerance of those of Different Cultures, Faiths and Beliefs

Our school serves pupils and families from many different ethnic and religious backgrounds. Intolerance of others is unacceptable. We value and celebrate the cultures within our community, reflected in many events and lessons each year. Through our Religious Education curriculum, pupils explore the beliefs and practices of a variety of world faiths, and we have annual visits to a Gurdwara and a Mandir as part of our learning. In Year 6, pupils research different local faith groups and the Humanist Society, and meet representatives from these organisations.