British Values at Chaucer

Promoting British Values

Chaucer Primary School is a Values driven school.  This is at the heart of everything we do.

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.” The Government set out its definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy, and these values are reiterated each year.  At Chaucer Primary School these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:

Democracy

Every child on the student council is voted in by their class which enables the children to understand the democratic process.  Children have an annual questionnaire where they are able to put forward their views about the school.

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 Chaucer Primary School.  Pupils are taught from an early age the rules of the school.   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. Visits from authorities such as the Police and Fire Service help reinforce this message.

Individual Liberty

At Chaucer Primary School, 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 responsibilities and advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our e-Safety and PSHE lessons.

Mutual Respect

Mutual respect is at the heart of our values.  The children learn how their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. This develops their sense of responsibility. Many children volunteer to help around the school in their own time taking part in schemes such as Rota Kids. We have school leaders in year 6 who take on additional responsibilities during their breaktimes and free time, representing school at community events, such as Remembrance Day Parade.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

At Chaucer Primary School 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. Members of different faiths and religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes and the school. The children visit places of worship that are important to different faiths.