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 Heaton Park we teach and reinforce these values as part of our Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural development which underpins and informs our curriculum. We believe in preparing our children positively for life in Britain.
Democracy
Children will take part in votes for school council members and a head boy and head girl in Year 6. The school council will meet on a regular basis to discuss issues that may arise in class circles and to discuss areas for school improvement. Members of the school council will be voted for by their peers and years 1-6 will have 2 representatives. Children will experience democracy within the classroom and discuss it within the curriculum.
Law
Children are taught why laws are important within school and the wider world. This is reinforced through the whole school Good to be Green positive behaviour strategy. We have visits from the police, MPs etc to give assemblies and raise our children’s awareness of laws and how they protect us and the consequences of not abiding by laws. Children learn about some important laws, such as the UNICEF Rights for Children.
Liberty
Children know they have a right to have their voice heard in a safe, nurturing environment. Circles and PSHE lessons will be at the heart of this, but also children are made aware of their rights to express themselves and they are encouraged to exercise their personal freedoms. We intend to become a Unicef Rights Respecting School by achieving their award this academic year.
Mutual Respect
Children at Heaton Park are taught to respect themselves and others. They learn that their choices affect their own and others rights to learn in a safe and caring environment. All adults and children in school are respectful to one another. They are encouraged to make good choices and use kind words.
Respecting the cultures and beliefs of others
We respect people from all faiths and cultures. Heaton Park is culturally diverse and we celebrate our similarities and our differences and share our beliefs in a respectful way. This is taught through RE, the SCARF scheme of work and across the curriculum. It is also developed in assemblies throughout the year which are planned to cover a range of areas around British Values and Spiritual Moral Social Cultural development. We include a programme of speakers from different faiths to share their knowledge and experience with us.
View our policy here: SMSC & British Values Policy 2022