British Values

In 2011 the British government set out its definition of British Values within the Prevent strategy.  These values were reiterated by the Prime Minister in 2014 and the DfE states there is a 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, mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs."

These values are taught explicitly through Personal, Social, Health and Emotional (PSHE) and Religious Education (RE) lessons.  The school also takes opportunities to actively promote Fundamental British Values (FBV) through our themed assembly programme. Actively promoting FBV also means challenging pupils, staff or parents expressing opinions contrary to Fundamental British Values, including 'extremist' views.

Democracy

Democracy is an important value at our school.  We have an elected School Council, which is based on pupil votes, and they meet regularly to discuss issues relating to the school.  

Pupils have a further opportunity to have their voices heard through pupil questionnaires and Pupil Voice interviews.

Rule of Law

The importance of following rules and acting within the law are constantly reinforced through both the school ethos and our Positive Behaviour and Discipline policy.  Our "Good to be Green" behaviour system is displayed in each classroom and is actively used to influence, reward and acknowledge the behaviour of others.  Pupils are taught the reasons behind such laws, how to take personal responsibility for how they act and the sanctions when laws/rules are broken.  Visits from the Police and Fire Service help us to reinforce this message.

Individual Liberty

At Newhall Park children are encouraged to make their own choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment.  As a school we educate and provide boundaries for our pupils to make choices safely, through the provision of a safe environment, a planned curriculum and an empowering education.  Learners understand their individual rights and freedoms through a range of curriculum activities, for example e safety lessons.

Mutual Respect

All the children at Newhall Park know their behaviours and actions have an effect on the rights of others. All members of the school community treat themselves, their peers and adults with respect.   

We regularly welcome a variety of charities and organisations to support and learn from the work they do.

Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs

This is achieved through enhancing pupils' understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity in our local community.  Assemblies, visitors and learning in both RE and PSHE, with a broad and balanced curriculum covering a range of faiths, cultures and religions, all contribute to developing this tolerance.  Likewise we use opportunities such as the Olympics and World Cup to study and learn about life and culture in countries who participate.  We employ teachers and teaching assistants who have English as an additional language and bring a rich and varied cultural experience to our school.

At Newhall Park Primary School we will actively challenge pupils, staff, parents or carers who express opinions contrary to fundamental British values, including any views that are of an 'extreme' nature.