Promoting British values at Portway Infant School

The DfE 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.’  The Government set out its definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent strategy, and these values have been reiterated in 2014. At Portway Infant School these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways.

Democracy

Children are listened to and are taught to listen carefully to others. Children are taught to respect the right of individuals to have their voices and opinions heard. The school council meets regularly and discusses issues raised in class or as a whole school. Each year, a council member is voted for to represent each class. Our Eco Rangers are passionate about our school environment are also voted for in the same way and meet regularly too.

The rule of law

The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school or the country are consistently reinforced at Portway Infant School.  Pupils are taught from an early age the value of our golden rules. Children are taught the value and the reason behind the rules and the laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibility this involves and the consequences when they are broken.

Individual liberty

At Portway Infant School, children are actively encouraged and taught to make the right choices, knowing they are in a safe and supportive environment. Children are expected to take responsibility for their own actions and to understand the consequence their actions might have. We educate and provide boundaries for children to enable them to make informed choices, through a safe and supportive environment. The understanding of rights and responsibilities are promoted through the teaching of PSHE and Online Safety.

Mutual respect

Mutual respect is a core value at Portway Infant School. Children learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community treat each other with respect.

Understanding of those of different faiths and beliefs

The school recognises its role in preparing children for life in modern Britain. We actively promote celebrations of different faiths and cultures. The religious education syllabus is the agreed Derby City syllabus. Through assemblies, religious education and personal and social education we reinforce messages of understanding and respect.

The curriculum

Staff regularly review the curriculum to ensure that it promotes the areas above. It also ensures that pupils are taught about key events and figures in history. Events during the year celebrate culturally diverse occasions and memorable events taking place in the local area and the whole country.  At Portway Infant School we will actively challenge children, staff or parents who express opinions that are contrary to fundamental British values including extremist views.