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British Values

The DFE expects all schools to play a part in preparing pupils positively for life in modern Britain and promoting the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect for and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs and those without faith.

At Christ Church we actively promote and embrace the British values through our school ethos, culture, Christian values, our curriculum (including RE and PSHE) and by engaging our pupils in wider curriculum events throughout the year. By fostering these values, we help children grow into well-rounded individuals who are ready to make a positive impact on the world.

 What do the 'Fundamental British values' look like at Christ Church?

Democracy 

We encourage students to have a voice and participate in decision-making processes. This aligns with our value of Creation, as we believe all are created with equal value.

Pupil voice is embedded in the life of the school. 

For example:    

  • Expressing views through Circle Time
  • Peer and self-assessment
  • Voting in the classroom
  • Voting for class responsibilities
  • Questionnaires - about learning and after visits and special events
  • Councils involved in decision making
  • Provide pupils with a broad general knowledge of, and promote respect for, public institution and services (PSHE)

Christ Church Pupil Councils

School Council- each class votes for representatives for the School Council. These pupils meet regularly and discuss ideas for improving the school and they raise any issues brought to them by their classmates.

Faith Ambassadors- the Faith Ambassadors meet regularly to monitor Collective Worship and to offer their opinions and suggestions. They also lead prayer during Collective Worship and they plan special pupil-led Collective Worship each term.

Digital Leaders- The Digital Leaders act as role models to other pupils and they champion the safe and effective use of technology. They promote online safety through supporting with assemblies and workshops.

 

The Rule of Law 

An understanding of British Law is developed through our curriculum, assemblies and Collective Worship. This aligns with our values of Community and Reconciliation.

Our Golden Rules ensure our community is a safe and respectful environment for all. They promote positive relationships and excellent behaviour.

  • Behaviour policy applied across the school with a system of rewards and sanctions, including restorative justice so that pupils understand how to rectify mistakes. PSHE and RE lessons also support in teaching children to distinguish between right and wrong.
  • Each class displays the Golden Rules and knows how they apply in all areas of the school
  • Playground games - children develop and agree the rules.
  • Visits from Community Safety Police Team with responsibility for schools.

Individual Liberty and mutual respect

Our pupils are encouraged to make choices in a safe and supportive environment where everyone is safe and included. This aligns with all our values: Creation, Community, Wisdom, Endurance, Thankfulness and Reconciliation.

For example:

  • Unit starters in curriculum lessons - children contribute to planning (what do we know/what do we want to find out/how)
  • Our approach to behaviour management - giving children choices through conflict resolution processes
  • Whole-school expectation of mutually respectful relationships between children, between children and staff and between staff
  • Choice over after-school clubs linked to pupil voice
  • Through discussions in PSHE/Circle Time
  • Actively demonstrating our school values - whole school celebration awards
  • Peer support systems – Playground Friends, Reading Buddies
  • Celebrating the differences between people such as different faiths, gender, ethnicity and disability.
  • Organise visits to places of worship
  • Challenge prejudicial or discriminatory behaviour

Respect and tolerance of different beliefs and faiths

Through our curriculum and special events children are taught to understand and appreciate the diverse culture in our society. This aligns with our values: Creation and Community

This is explored through:

  • Christ Church has high expectations about pupil conduct and understanding of diversity. This is reflected in our Behaviour and Equality policies
  • Collective Worship attended by all pupils and covers themes which are Christian, but relevant to children of all faith backgrounds and offering opportunities to teach tolerance and understanding.
  • RE scheme of work designed to fully inform pupils of the core beliefs of major world religions.
  • Assemblies and class work promote the diversity of society and the right for each person to be respected and valued equally regardless of ability, gender, faith, heritage or ethnicity.
  • Diversity is also promoted through music, displays, international days, drama/stories and themed weeks.
  • Children are given time to celebrate major religious festivals.