The DfE has 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.” The Government set out its definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy, and these values were reiterated again in 2014.

At The Belfry CEVA Primary School, these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:

Democracy

Each year the children decide upon their class rules and the rights associated with these. All the children contribute to the drawing up of the rules. Children, parents and staff have an annual questionnaire where they are able to put forward their views about the school and this is monitored by governors and acted upon where appropriate. We have close links with local councillors and our local MP, Steff Aquarone, has visited the school to talk with classes. We also bi-annually visit the Houses of Parliament for a Member's Tour. 

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 The Belfry. Pupils are taught from an early age the rules of the school. There are our class rules, playground rules and e-safety procedures. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind rules and laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Events organised with authorities such as the Police and Fire Service help reinforce this message.

Individual Liberty

At The Belfry, 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 an empowering education. 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, Forest School 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. We believe that respect for the environment is also of paramount importance and this is promoted through our Forest Schools curriculum.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

The Belfry is a small rural school but we feel that it is critical to actively promote diversity through our celebrations of different faiths and cultures. Religious Education lessons and PSHE teaching reinforce messages of tolerance and respect for others. Members of different faiths and religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes and the school. Our school welcomes families of religious or non-religious background equally.