British Values

The Department for Education has introduced a statutory duty for schools to promote British Values more actively from September 2014, and to ensure they are taught in schools. 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.”

Marsh Infant and Nursery School is committed to serving its community, e are very proud of our school and the ways in which it actively promotes the key British Values..  It recognises the multi-cultural, multi-faith and ever-changing nature of High Wycombe and the United Kingdom and the importance of educating pupils about the rich diversity of the town and country they live in.  It also understands the vital role it has 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. It follows equal opportunities guidance which guarantees that there will be no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar. Marsh Infant and Nursery School is dedicated to preparing students for their life beyond the formal, examined curriculum and ensuring that it promotes and reinforces British values to all its students.

Our diverse and inclusive RE and PSHE curriculum offers excellent opportunities to deepen and develop understanding of the concepts of British Values. However, many subjects such as History or Music, incorporate the promoting of these values much of the time. We have a wonderful array of fiction and non-fiction books to support the promotion of the five key British Values The school is committed to ensuring that children have exposure to a wide range of experiences that promote British Values through visits, sporting events and supporting local, national and international charities. Every interaction staff have with parents and children will show our commitment to understanding these fundamental values.

The government set out its definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy.

The five key British Values are:

• Democracy

• Rule of Law

• Individual liberty

• Mutual respect

• Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs.

Democracy

Our children are encouraged to participate in democratic processes such as voting for school councillors and shared rewards.  This process is led by the Head Teacher or Deputy Head Teacher and facilitated by class teachers.  It is reported to the Governing body.  Children are taught that democracy is an essential component of successful team work as all voices are heard and respected.

The Rule of Law

We have a clearly structured behaviour policy which all children have contributed to and understand.  Staff model respectful behaviour at all times.  Children are taught the value and reasons for the rules that protect us all and about the possible consequences of breaking laws.  We have strong links with the community and the neighbourhood Policing Team who regularly attend school events and educate the children about upholding British Law.

Mutual Respect

Respect is a school value that forms the foundation of our ethos.  Our children are taught to respect themselves, their family and friends, other groups of people, the wider world and its people, and the environment.  Regular educational walks around the locality foster respect for the environment and the PSHE and RE curriculum embodies respectful attitudes towards all.  Our children are encouraged to talk about differences and similarities and show respect for each other.

Individual Liberty

Our children are encouraged and supported in developing independence in learning and being able to think for themselves.  They understand about the importance of accepting responsibility and of their right to be heard.  Children have opportunities to hold key roles in school; such as School councillors, Lunchtime helpers, Play leaders and class monitors.  Through our extensive extra-curricular activities, children are given the freedom to make choices.

Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

Our RE curriculum provides a broad and balanced education enabling the children to talk about a range of different faiths and religions.  The message that underpins our school ethos is that our differences make us interesting and our similarities make us human.  We consider ourselves fortunate to have families from diverse backgrounds in our school community and the learning environment reflects this.  The children at Marsh Infant and Nursery School are encouraged to ask questions of each other and show tolerance and respect for each other’s differences.