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British Values

At Derry Hill Primary School, we actively promote British Values through our school vision, ethos, agreed rules, curriculum and teaching:


These values are defined as:

  • Democracy
  • Rule of law
  • Individual liberty
  • Mutual respect
  • Tolerance of those of different faiths.

To promote these values:

  • Democracy: Pupils have their voices heard through our School Council and Pupil questionnaires. We elect House Captains, and a School Council each academic year.
  • The Rule of Law: Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws that govern and protect us, the responsibilities  this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Police and Fire Service are a regular part of our calendar. Pupils are regularly rewarded for great behaviour with gold coins, house points class marbles in the jar and verbal recognition.
  • Individual Liberty: Our pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. We educate and provide boundaries for children to make safe choices. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms through our Online Safety and PSHE lessons. Pupils are given the freedom to make choices.
  • Mutual Respect: Our school ethos and behaviour policy revolves around our one school rule of 'RESPECT.'  Assemblies relate to what this means. Posters around the school promote respect for others and this is reiterated through our classroom and learning rules, as well as our behaviour policy.
  • Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs: This is achieved through enhancing pupils' understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society. We offer opportunities to experience diversity through visits to places of worship. We hold theme days when children have the opportunity to experience different religions and cultures.  Assemblies and discussions involving prejudices and prejudice-based bullying are followed and supported by learning in RE and PSHE.  The children have a ‘Picture News’ assembly each week. 

How can parents/carers support British Values at home?

Democracy

  • Have children vote on family choices, like a movie for family night or what game to play.
  • Encourage them to share their opinions on topics and show that their views are important.
  • Listen to and value their thoughts during discussions. 

The Rule of Law

  • Work together to create a set of family rules.
  • Talk about why rules are needed and how they help keep everyone safe and happy.
  • Help them understand the difference between right and wrong and the consequences of breaking rules.

Individual Liberty

  • Give them opportunities to make safe choices for themselves, such as picking their own outfit or choosing a book.
  • Encourage them to explore their own interests and hobbies.
  • Create a safe space for them to share their thoughts and ideas without fear of judgment. 

Mutual Respect and Tolerance

  • Read books about different cultures and beliefs to help children learn about diverse experiences.
  • Watch age-appropriate videos or shows that showcase different cultures.
  • Encourage kindness and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background.
  • Talk about respecting differences in opinions, as well as different faiths and beliefs