British Values and the Prevent Strategy
The Department for Education have recently reinforced the 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.”
At Minsterley Primary School these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:
Democracy
The ethos of the school promotes a community where individuals are listened to and valued by peers and adults. Pupils have the opportunity to make choices, share ideas and suggest improvements to their school learning and environment through the pupils’ school council and in class activities. Formal surveys are carried out with the children to gain their views on their school experience, safety and behaviour.
The Rule of Law
Children are taught the rules of the school as soon as they start in the Early Years Foundation Stage. They are taught the value and reasons behind rules and laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Pupils are regularly reminded to follow the ‘Golden Rules’ and the Minsterley Way in everything they do, which reinforces the rules of law. Children are encouraged to have self-discipline based on an understanding of the feelings of others and follow the examples of good behaviour demonstrated by others. Rules are regularly reinforced in class, the playground and assemblies.
Individual liberty
We teach children about the freedom of choice and pride ourselves on providing them with a safe and supportive environment within which to do so. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely, for example through E-safety and PSHE lessons.
We provide role-models to the children and encourage them to think about their role in the school and wider community.
Children learn about other faiths and the right for individuals to choose to hold other faiths. They learn to recognise discrimination and understand the importance of combatting discrimination.
Preventing Radicalisation and Extremism
Minsterley Primary School has a zero tolerance approach to extremist behaviour for all school community members. We are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all its children against radicalisation and extremism. All of our staff are expected to uphold and promote the fundamental principles of British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
