The DFE have reinforced the need for schools to encourage pupils to respect British values of:

  • Democracy
  • The rule of law
  • Individual liberty
  • Mutual respect
  • Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

Ofsted also reflect this in their expectations that school must “Promote preparation for, and an appreciation of, life in modern Britain”.

Here at North Newton Community Primary School we reinforce these values regularly and in the following ways:

  • Democracy – is promoted through out pupil-elected School Council, through pupil surveys and opportunities for debate on various issues in class. We have also recently voted on the names of our new houses and also our school motto – ‘Together We Achieve’. Within the last 12 months, we have updated our Vision and Values of the School and this was carefully worded based on the outcomes of our Parental, Staff and Children Surveys.
  • The Importance of Laws – whether they be those that govern the class (as shown by the Class Rules), the school (such as our Golden Rules or Playground Manners), or the country, they are consistently reinforced throughout regular school days, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through school assemblies. All staff and children are encouraged to be pro-active when around the school and asked to speak out when something or someone is not promoting out School Vision and Values.

    Pupils are taught the value for and reasons behind laws, namely that they govern and protect us. They are also helped to understand the responsiblities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Police, Fire Service, Road Safety, Bike-it etc. are regular parts of our calendar and help reinforce these messages.
  • Individual Liberty – is taught through E-Safety and Personal, Social and Helth Education lessons that advise pupil on how to exercise their rights and personal freedoms safely. Pupils are encouraged to reflect on potential risks and to make sensible choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. We have E-Safety sessions every half-term and hold our annual E-Safety Day in line with the National Day.
  • Mutual Respect – is one of our core values and an important part of our school ethos. Discussion and assemblies focus on what respect means and how it is shown to others. Following a piece of work and as assembly, we made a ‘Respect’ acrostic poem for all to follow.
  • Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs – is promoted through our Collective Worship and RE lessons which enable children to learn about and from the major world religions. Children are helped to broaden their understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and we encourage members of different faiths and cultures to share their knowledge in school.

“The school teaches knowledge of the wider world, fundamental British values, different faiths and cultures in personal development lessons, religious studies and assemblies”

OFSTED Inspector 2023