The DfE have 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 have been recently reiterated.  At Slade these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:

Democracy

We have the Pupil Council which meets regularly to discuss issues raised in class council meetings and to consult on questions asked by the Headteacher. The council has its own budget and is able to genuinely effect change within the school.  

Each year the children vote for their House Captains to represent and lead their House.

The Rule of Law

The importance of Laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced by the school ethos.  At Slade we have five golden rules and high, clear expectations which is taught to the children through the curriculum and through school assemblies. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from other agencies such as the magistrate, Police and Fire Service help reinforce this message.  Children in Year 6 take part in 'Bikeabillity' and through this they learn the law of the road.

Individual Liberty

Within 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 choices safely, through provision of a safe environment and empowering education.  Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and they are advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our E-Safety and PSHCE lessons. Whether it be through choice of learning challenge, of how they record, of participation in our numerous extra-curricular clubs and opportunities, pupils are given the freedom to make choices.

Mutual Respect

Our whole school ethos is built on respect, mutual respect that is at the heart of our school. Children learn that their behaviour has an effect on their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community treat each other with respect.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

Slade is lucky enough to have a diverse population. Assemblies are regularly planned to share a wider understanding and respect for others through the inclusion of stories and celebrations from a variety of faiths and cultures. Our RE and PSHCE teaching reinforce this. Members of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes and the school. Children visit places of worship that are important to different faiths. At Slade we would actively challenge pupils, staff or parents expressing opinions contrary to fundamental British Values, including ‘extremist’ views.