Fundamental 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

What does this mean for my child?

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?

The values are reflected throughout our school, including in our ethos, policies and assemblies.

Children also engage with the values through the curriculum, in ways that are suitable for 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 children can have their voices heard and learn about democracy.

Out duty to actively fundamental British values means that we always present political views to children in a balance way. We are also responsible for challenging prejudiced or extreme opinions and behaviour.

As part of this responsibility, we have put measures in place to protect children from exposure to extremist views. Please feel free to contact the school if you would more information about this.

British Values