British Values Statement

Whiston Junior and Infant School is required under section 78 of the Education Act (2002) to promote the spiritual, moral, mental and physical development of pupils. 

We are committed to serving its community. It recognises the multi-cultural, multi-faith and ever-changing nature of the United Kingdom. It also understands the vital role it has in ensuring that groups or individuals within the school are not subjected to intimidation or radicalisation by those wishing to unduly, or illegally, influence them.

In accordance with The Department for Education we aim to actively promote British values in schools to ensure young people leave school prepared for life in modern Britain. Pupils are encouraged to regard people of all faiths, races and cultures with respect and tolerance and understand that while different people may hold different views about what is ‘right’ and ‘wrong’, all people living in England are subject to its law.

It follows equal opportunities guidance which guarantees that there will be no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar. Whiston Junior and Infant School is dedicated to preparing pupils for their adult life beyond the formal, examined curriculum and ensuring that it promotes and reinforces British values to all its pupils.

The DfE has suggested that pupils are taught about fundamental British values during their spiritual, moral and cultural (SMSC) classes. Pupils are expected to display knowledge of the fundamental aspects of British values. The government has outlined their expectations, stating that pupils should:

• Understand the democratic process and how citizens can have a say in decision making.
• Recognise the advantages to living under the rule of law and how law is essential for a safe society.
• See that there is a separation of power and why it exists.
• Understand the reasons for accountability of institutions and why courts maintain independence.
• Know why freedom of religion protects all faiths, as well as those with no faith.
• Accept that people who hold different religious beliefs should be tolerated and not be discriminated against.
• Value the importance of identifying and combatting extremism.

Whiston Junior and Infant School will not promote or teach any particular belief, view or way of life that contradicts our outlook or ethos; however, we will not promote discrimination, or accept intolerance against people or groups, on the basis of their belief, opinion or background.

The Key Values are: 

• democracy
• rule of law
• individual liberty
• mutual respect
• tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

 How this is done at Whiston Junior and Infant School?

Actively promoting British values through:

• Focusing on and showing how the school’s work is effective in securing these values
• Challenging pupils, staff or parents who express opinions contrary to British values

Democracy – what do we do?

• Provide pupils with a broad general knowledge of, and promote respect for, public institutions and services
• Teach pupils how they can influence decision-making through the democratic process including their right to vote and elect for school council
• Include in the curriculum information on the advantages and disadvantages of democracy and how it works in Britain
• Encourage pupils to become involved in decision-making processes and ensure they are listened to in school
• Hold ‘mock elections’ and debates so pupils learn how to argue and defend points of view (KS2)
• Help pupils to express their views
• Model how perceived injustice can be peacefully challenged
• Democracy is shown through history topics such as the Vikings and Saxons, Tudors and WWII
• Circle Time (KS1) and SEAL discussion groups (KS2)

Rule of law – what do we do?

• Ensure school rules and expectations are clear and fair - Whiston 5 Ws -
• Classroom Code of Conduct
• Class rules and celebration of adhering to these rules
• Help pupils to distinguish right from wrong
• Help pupils to respect the law and the basis on which it is made
• Help pupils to understand that living under the rule of law protects individuals
• Include visits from the police across the year
• Teach pupils aspects of both civil and criminal law and discuss how this might differ from some religious laws (Year 6)

Individual liberty – what do we do?

• Support pupils to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence
• Encourage pupils to take responsibility for their behaviour, as well as knowing their rights – encouraging restorative practices and the principles of a ‘Rights Respecting School (UNICEF)
• Model freedom of speech through pupil participation, while ensuring protection of vulnerable pupils and promoting critical analysis of evidence
• Challenge stereotypes Implement a strong anti-bullying culture 
• E-Safety through school

Respect and tolerance – what do we do?

• Promote respect for individual differences – including aa annual whole school cultural and diversity week
• Help pupils to acquire an understanding of, and respect for, their own and other cultures and ways of life
• Challenge prejudicial or discriminatory behaviour
• Organise visits to places of worship
• Develop links with faith and other communities through RE and working alongside children and their families
• Learning to disagree in a respectful way
• Develop critical personal thinking skills

Identifying radicalisation– what do we do?

• Teach pupils to be aware of specific danger signs and what to look out for when it comes to radicalisation – extreme views or thoughts.