Fundamental British Values
On 27th November 2014, the government published guidance on promoting British values in schools to ensure young people leave school prepared for life in modern Britain. The guidance stated that:
‘All (schools) have a duty to ‘actively 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.’
Through our SMSC (Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural) Curriculum, opportunities across all subjects studied and life in school are used to ensure that all children learn about the five British values:
Democracy - understand of how citizens can influence decision-making through the democratic process and how democracy and the law works in Britain, in contrast to other forms of government in other countries. To be actively engaged in a democratic process in school so that children have a voice that is listened to (e.g. the School Council).
The rule of law - understand that laws are created by Acts of Parliament and are there to keep all safe. That the freedom to hold other faiths and beliefs is protected in law
Individual liberty - that everyone has the right to express their opinions and make choices for themselves providing their actions do not harm others.
Mutual respect and tolerance - acceptance that people having different faiths or beliefs (or having none) should be accepted and our uniqueness recognised.
An understanding of the importance of identifying and combatting discrimination.
