British Values

British Values

The government set out its definition of British values as:

• democracy
• the rule of law
• individual liberty
• mutual respect
• tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

Our school is committed to teaching the children to distinguish between right and wrong, to contribute positively to the lives of others in the school, within our local community and our wider world.

Lapworth School provides opportunities to reinforce British values through its own Christian ethos and values and also through its teaching within and beyond the national curriculum. Children have the opportunity to study each British Value as part of our ‘Family Time’ sessions and also explore the how they are woven into the life of the school.

Democracy

Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard. We actively promote pupil voice through our:

School Council

Play Leaders

Wellbeing Ambassadors

Worship Group

Eco Warriors

Family Time

Pupil questionnaires

Suggestion boxes

The School Council promotes the democratic processes, fostering the concept of freedom of speech and group action to identify needs and concerns within the school and among those in need in the local and international community.

Pupils are encouraged to engage in debates and express their views across the curriculum. They also enthusiastically offer their thoughts on environmental issues and our Eco Warriors actively seek to be agents of change.

The Rule of Law

An understanding of the rule of law is developed through class discussions around the rights and responsibilities of the pupils. This informs relationships and behaviour in school and shapes classroom and school rules. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws, that they govern and protect us and the consequences of breaking the law. Visits from various authorities such as the Police, Rail Companies, the RNLI and the Fire Service help us to reinforce this message.

The children are trained as ‘Play Leaders’ and ‘Wellbeing Ambassadors’ and participate in the resolution of minor playground disagreements and provide the voice of reason by encouraging others to make sensible choices.

Helping pupils distinguish between right and wrong is an integral part of the school day, however, specific curriculum units within our PSHE curriculum are also used to develop understanding.

Individual Liberty

We encourage pupils to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supporting environment.

There is a strong anti-bullying culture in school. We incorporate anti-bullying strategies into our curriculum across the year and take part in Anti-Bullying Week.

Our children are taught to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms throughout our curriculum. They are encouraged to give their opinions and share these ideas with due regard for the feelings of others. Our PSHE curriculum and Family Time sessions place a huge emphasis on the social and emotional learning of our children so that we send them to their secondary school as well rounded individuals. 

Mutual Respect

Respect is one of our core values and as such the children are encouraged to respect individual differences and challenge discrimination.

The principles of mutual respect are incorporated throughout our school and our behaviour policy. We constantly promote respect for others and the importance of good manners.  All pupils are taught the importance of self-respect, honest and open communication with others. Pupils work collaboratively and value others’ opinions.

Through Physical Education we promote the concept of “fair play”, following and developing rules, inclusion, celebrating and rewarding success, being magnanimous in defeat and participation in activities that promote kinship and affiliation with others.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

As a Church of England school, pupils are reminded of their place in a culturally diverse society. This is achieved through our Religious Education curriculum, PSHE lessons, Collective worship and the spiritual life of the school. Assemblies and class work promote the diversity of society and the right for each person to be respected and valued equally regardless of ability, gender, faith, heritage or race. 

As part of our Interfaith week we welcome visitors from a variety of faiths and plan trips to places of worship within our local community that enable children to gain a greater understanding and respect for others that make up our local community and beyond.