Our British Values Statement

The UK Government set out its definition of British Values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy. The DfE has recently reinforced the need ‘to create and enforce a clear and rigorous expectation on all schools to promote the fundamental British values.’  These are:

• Democracy
• The rule of law
• Individual liberty
• Mutual respect
• Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

At St. Stephen’s Catholic Primary School we are committed to serving our community and local area. In so doing we reinforce British values regularly and in the following ways:

Democracy

Democratic values are an explicit part of the ethos at St.Stephen’s. All adults listen to the views of the pupils and value their opinions. Pupils have further opportunity to have their voices heard through our Pupil Chaplains, Councillors and through Pupil Voice interviews. The election of the School Council is the result of pupil votes and this group canvases the opinions of its peers regularly.

The Rule of Law

The importance of laws and rules are consistently reinforced in the classroom, as well as through school assemblies. Pupils are taught to understand the need for laws – that they are there for individual protection, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Pupils follow a positive behaviour policy and clearly understand the rewards and sanctions that are used. Assemblies and discussions in class focus on recognising right from wrong. Visits from the Police, Fire Service and local councillors and other elected members (such as our MP) help to reinforce these messages.

Individual Liberty

Pupils are encouraged to be independent learners, constantly making choices, within a safe and supportive environment. Developing their self esteem and self-confidence is very important. Pupils are encouraged to understand their personal freedoms and are taught how to use these rights to best effect. All pupils are given regular opportunities to support charities – local, national and global. They are taught consideration for others through our Religious Education curriculum and PSHE lessons in particular. Esafety teaching and discussions about personal safety enable them to make choices in a safe manner.

Mutual Respect

Our school’s ethos and behaviour policy are based on the Gospel values of Love, Peace, Truth and Justice. Assemblies regularly promote respect for others and the importance of good manners. All pupils are taught the importance of self-respect, honest and open communication with others and fair play. Pupils work collaboratively and value others’ opinions.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

As a Catholic worshipping community, pupils are reminded of their place in a culturally diverse society. This is achieved through our Religious Education curriculum and the spiritual life of the school. Assemblies, class work and a whole school emphasis on Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural education (SMSC)helps promote the diversity of society and the right for each person to be respected and valued equally regardless of ability, gender, faith, heritage or race. Members of different faiths or religions are invited to school to share their knowledge and enhance learning within assemblies and in class.