Promoting British Values

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.”

At Kemsing Primary School we recognise the multi-cultural, multi faith and ever-changing nature of the United Kingdom.  We also understand the vital role we have in ensuring that groups or individuals within the school are not subjected to intimidation or radicalisation 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.  We have clear policies in place regarding equal opportunities, which ensure that there will be no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar. 

The Government emphasises 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:

• 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: World War I, World War II, the Seaside, The Great Fire of London and Florence Nightingale.

Daily acts of collective worship/ whole school assembly
Our assemblies uphold traditional values of empathy, respect and tolerance and these are reflected in the school rules we use.  Local religious leaders are invited to take assemblies when these traditional values are reinforced.

PSHE

Mutual respect is also taught within PSHE and RE lessons and on an informal nature throughout the school day. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our E-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 Kent Agreed Syllabus.

The local Churches and places of reflection like the Well are visited as part of the RE 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, form an integral part of the PE curriculum.

School Council

The school promotes democratic processes through the election of school council representatives and the election of the chair and vice chair. This fosters the concept of freedom of speech and group action to address need and concerns.

Involvement in key local and National events:

In recent years, we celebrated the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II and the Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton with special events, assemblies and themed lessons. The visit of the Olympic torch was embraced. Each year Armistice Day is remembered and children are encouraged to reflect on this.  The school have also learned about the General Election and its role in ensuring British democracy.