British Values
The Department for Education expressed 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.”
We shared this video in assembly this morning (6.11.2023):
The Government set out its definition of British Values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy, and these values were reiterated in 2014. At Markeaton these values are shared regularly and in the following ways:
Democracy
Our various Councils meet at least every term with their Designated Leaders to discuss issues raised in class council meetings. The council has delegated powers and is genuinely able to create change within the school. Every child on each student council is voted in by their class through a fair democratic process. This process is also used to determine the Y6 House Captains. Children are then presented with an annual questionnaire where they are able to put forward their views about the school.
Assemblies about British Values:
British Values Assembly (Individual Liberty ) 13.6.2022
British Values Assembly (Tolerance) 25.4.2022
British Values Assembly (The Rule of Law) 8.3.2022
British Values Assembly (Mutual Respect) 6.11.2023
British Values Assembly (Democracy) 24.1.2022
School Council Voting
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 Markeaton. Pupils are taught from an early age the rules of the school – which are enveloped by our very own Rights and Responsibilities.
These are:
We listen
We are gentle
We are honest
We look after property
We are kind and helpful
Visits from local services and authorities, such as the Police and Fire Service, help reinforce this message.
A British Values display in class
Individual Liberty
At Markeaton, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make informed choices, through a safe environment and a powerful/creative education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and safely exercise their rights and personal freedoms, for example, through our E-Safety, RE and PSHE lessons.
Mutual Respect
Mutual respect is at the heart of our values. 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. This message is continually delivered by all members of staff in all aspects of the curriculum in the hope that it extends beyond the boundaries of our school and into the community.
Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
At Markeaton we actively promote diversity through our celebrations of different faiths and cultures. Religious Education lessons and PSHE lessons reinforce messages of tolerance and respect for others – as do our visits to local places of worship and schools which support diverse school communities.