Our British Values 

The Department for Education state that 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 and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.

The government set out its definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy and these values were reiterated by the Prime Minister in 2014.

At Hernhill Church of England Primary School these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways.

Democracy:

Democracy is an important value at our school. Pupils are taught to listen carefully and with concern to each other, respecting the right of every individual to have their opinions and voices heard. Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Council. The elections of members of the School Council are based on pupil votes reflecting our British electoral system and demonstrating democracy in action. Pupils also have the opportunity to air their opinions and ideas through our School Council.

The Rule of Law:

The importance of laws and rules, whether they are those that govern the class, the school or the country, are consistently reinforced. Our behaviour policy is aligned to our school’s agreed values (love, forgiveness, thankfulness, compassion and trust).

Visits from authorities such as the police, fire service, lifeguards etc. are regular parts of our calendar and help reinforce this message.

Individual Liberty:

Pupils are actively encouraged to make choices at our school, 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 and a creative curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our e-Safety teaching and PSHE lessons.

Mutual Respect:

The pupils understand that respect is essential in order that we exist in harmony with each other. It is expected that respect is shown to everyone, whatever differences we may have and to everything, however big or small. 

Tolerance of Those With Different Faiths And Beliefs:

Our school celebrates the different faiths and beliefs of our families. We enhance pupils’ understanding of different faiths and beliefs through religious education studies. Assemblies and discussions involving prejudices and prejudice-based bullying have been followed and supported by learning in RE and PSHE.