British Values
What are Fundamental British Values?
Schools are required to provide for the spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development of their pupils. As part of this requirement, we are expected to actively promote fundamental British Values.
The government defines these as:
- Democracy
- The Rule of Law
- Individual Liberty
- Mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs
Our children have to be educated in the values of equality, freedom of choice and democracy.
What does this mean for my child?
At Leagrave, our efforts to promote fundamental British values are designed to prepare children for life in modern Britain.
Ultimately, we aim to help pupils understand:
- The importance of combatting discrimination
- How we can influence decision-making by taking part in democratic processes like voting and petitioning
- Our freedom under British Law to choose different faiths and beliefs
- That the law is there to keep us safe
What does this look like in school?
Children also engage with the values through the curriculum, in ways that are suitable for their age and context. For example, in some subjects there are opportunities to think about traditions from different cultures and religions.
Extra-curricular activities such as games teach children about the importance of rules. Pupil votes, questionnaires and councils are other ways that your children can have their voices heard and learn about democracy.
Our duty to actively promote fundamental British values means that we always present political views to children in a balanced way. We are also responsible for challenging prejudiced or extreme opinions and behaviour.