Statement on British Values

Gretton Primary Academy is committed to serving its community. It recognizes the multi-cultural, multi faith and ever-changing nature of the United Kingdom. It also understands the vital role it has in ensuring that groups or individuals within the school are not subjected to intimidation or radicalization by those wishing to unduly, or illegally, influence them.

The school accepts admissions from all those entitled to an education under British law, including pupils of all faiths or none. It follows the policies outlined by the Brooke Weston Trust regarding equal opportunities, which guarantee that there will be no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar. It seeks to serve all.

The Government emphasizes that schools are required to ensure that key ‘British Values’ are taught in all UK schools. The government set out its definition of British values in the ‘Prevent Strategy’ – values of: 

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

The school uses strategies within the National curriculum and beyond to secure such outcomes for pupils. Here are some examples of when British values are shared:

Curriculum themes and topics

Our curriculum prepares children for life in British society, this includes developing the understanding and use of money, effective reading and writing skills, collaboration and discussion to research ideas and concepts. Curriculum themes include historical and geographical study in the context of the United Kingdom as well as national and international comparisons. Topic examples: We are Britain, The Fire of London, The Victorians, Word War II, The Seaside.

Art work from the school has been displayed in the National Gallery in recent years.

Daily acts of collective worship/ whole school assembly

In line with regulation our assemblies are “wholly or mainly of a broadly Christian character”

Our assemblies uphold traditional values of empathy, respect and tolerance and these are reflected in the Golden Rules of the school. The local Vicar and Baptist minister regularly take assemblies as does the local Police Officer. All of whom reinforce these traditional values.

PSHE

Mutual respect is also taught within formal SEAL, PSHE and RE lessons and on an informal nature throughout the school days. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our E-Safety policy and PSHE work on keeping myself safe.

RE

Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs is promoted in RE as children gain a greater understanding of religious diversity and practices for those religions represented in the UK. Planning for RE is directed by the Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education (SACRE) - Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education.

The local Church and Baptist chapel are visited as part of the RE curriculum and to celebrate key Christian festivals throughout the year.

PE

Promotion of the concept of “fair play”, following and developing rules, celebrating and rewarding success, accepting defeat and participating in activities that promote cooperation with others and inclusion for all.

School Council/Eco Council

Promotion of democratic processes through the election of school councilors and Eco Warriors. Fostering the concept of freedom of speech and group action to address need and concerns.

Involvement in key local and National events:

In recent years, we celebrated the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, the Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton and the birth of Prince George with special events, assemblies and themed lessons. The visit of the Queen to our local town and the Olympic torch were all embraced. We also have a very traditional annual Rose Fair with Maypole and Country dancing. Each year Armistice Day is remembered and children are encouraged to reflect on this.

For further information of how the school seeks to promote key British Values please contact the school.