British Values
Statement on British Values.
Oakley Vale Primary School is committed to serving its community. It recognizes 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 radicalization by those wishing to unduly, or illegally, influence them.
The school accepts admissions from all those entitled to an education under British law, including pupils of all faiths or none. It follows the policies outlined by the Brooke Weston Trust regarding equal opportunities, which guarantee that there will be no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar. It seeks to serve all.
The Government emphasizes that schools are required to ensure that key ‘British Values’ are taught in all UK schools. The government set out its definition of British values in the ‘Prevent Strategy’ – values of:
- democracy
- the rule of law
- individual liberty
- mutual respect
- tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
The school uses strategies within the National curriculum and beyond to secure such outcomes for pupils. Here are some examples of when British values are shared:
Curriculum themes and topics
Our curriculum prepares children for life in British society, this includes developing the understanding and use of money, effective reading and writing skills, collaboration and discussion to research ideas and concepts. Curriculum themes include historical and geographical study in the context of the United Kingdom as well as national and international comparisons. Topic examples: Local Study, The Victorians and The World War. Every Christmas the performances of KS1 children are based on the Christian faith with a traditional Nativity play.
PSHE
Mutual respect is also taught within formal PSHE and RE lessons and on an informal nature throughout the school days. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our Online Safety policy and PSHE work on keeping myself safe.
RE
Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs is promoted in RE as children gain a greater understanding of religious diversity and practices for those religions represented in the UK. Planning for RE is directed by the Northamptonshire Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education, which is followed using the Brooke Weston Trust Curriculum.
PE
Promotion of the concept of “fair play”, following and developing rules, celebrating and rewarding success, accepting defeat and participating in activities that promote cooperation with others and inclusion for all.
School Council
Promotion of democratic processes through the election of school councillors. Fostering the concept of freedom of speech and group action to address need and concerns. Democratic processes are also part of the children’s curriculum and often part of whole school events for example voting for the names of our new school guinea pigs.
Involvement in key local and National events:
In recent years, we celebrated the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, The Queen’s 90th birthday, Tim Peake going to the International Space Station, Remembrance of WW1 with special events, assemblies and themed lessons.
For further information of how the school seeks to promote key British Values please look at the curriculum long term plans and contact the school.