At Wittersham Church of England Primary School, modern British Values are a key part of our curriculum and learning. These values are integral to the development of well-rounded individuals who are prepared to contribute positively to society. Our learning promotes the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.

In 2011, the Government defined British Values as:

• Democracy
• The Rule of Law
• Individual Liberty
• Mutual Respect
• Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

Our curriculum enables pupils to:

• Develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem, and self-confidence
• Distinguish right from wrong and respect the civil and criminal law of England
• Take responsibility for their behaviour, show initiative, and understand how they can contribute positively to the lives of those living and working in the locality of the school and to society more widely
• Acquire a broad general knowledge of and respect for public institutions and services in England
• Promote tolerance and harmony between different cultural traditions by enabling students to acquire an appreciation of and respect for their own and other cultures
• Encourage respect for other people and for democracy
• Support participation in democratic processes, including respect for the basis on which the law is made and applied in England

We aim to teach these values in a way that primary-aged children can understand and empathise with. For example, when electing our school council, we actively experience democracy by individually voting for our Head Boy, Head Girl, and House Captains.

Democracy

House Captains and School Council representatives are elected each year by their fellow pupils. The School Council meets regularly to discuss issues and suggest improvements. The House Captains represent their houses, organise events, and act as role models. An annual questionnaire allows all pupils to put forward their views about the school. Democracy is also promoted through additional PSHE lessons and assemblies.

The Rule of Law

Pupils are taught from an early age the rules of the school and the importance of laws that govern the class, the school, and the country. We have high expectations of how pupils should conduct themselves, as reflected in our Behaviour Policy. For example, in Oxney Class, when studying the Rule of Law, a parent lent robes to enhance students’ understanding of the British Legal System.

Individual Liberty

Pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing they are in a safe and supportive environment. We teach children how to keep themselves safe, with great emphasis placed on the digital environment through e-safety and PSHE lessons.

Mutual Respect

Mutual respect is at the heart of our school values. Our ethos and behaviour policy are rooted in core Christian values such as respect and responsibility. Children learn that their behaviour affects their own rights, as well as those of others. All members of the school community treat each other with respect. Children are taught to respect one another and to be cooperative and collaborative.

Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

We actively promote cultural diversity and develop an openness towards other faiths across the globe. Religious Education and PSHE lessons reinforce messages of tolerance and respect for others, fostering an appreciation of different cultures and beliefs.

At Wittersham Church of England Primary School, we strive to create a learning environment where these British values shape every aspect of school life, preparing our pupils to live as respectful, responsible, and engaged citizens in a diverse world.