British Values

We actively promote 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.  At Ranskill Primary these values are reinforced regularly and run through everything we do alongside our school "Take Care" values.

Democracy

Democracy is richly embedded within the school. Pupils have many opportunities to have their voices heard through our School Council.  Every year we hold a 'General Election' when the children get the opportunity to vote for their School Councillors. During this process all candidates take part in a whole school assembly and give a presentation on their vision for Ranskill Primary. All children and staff then get the chance to vote for their preferred candidate in the ballot.

Pupils are listened to and are taught to listen carefully to others. They are taught to respect the right of individuals to have their voices and opinions heard and are taught to discuss issues in a calm and balanced way.

The Rule of Law

The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school or the country are consistently reinforced throughout regular school days at Ranskill. Each class devises their own class charter linked to our "Take Care" values, that they all agree to abide by in the class; these rules run alongside the basic expectations that we have for all pupils. 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 authorities such as the police and fire service are a regular part of our school calendar and we often have assemblies run by these key services and help to reinforce this message.  

Individual Liberty

Alongside rules and laws, we promote freedom of choice and the right to respectfully express views and beliefs.  Pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we provide boundaries for our children to make choices safely, through the provision of a safe environment and planned curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our assemblies, or themed PSHEE days curriculum and e-Safety teaching. Pupils are given the freedom to make choices, e.g. attending extra-curricular activities and supporting fundraising through our enrichment activities.

Mutual Respect

Mutual respect is at the core of our school life. All pupils and staff are expected to treat each other with respect.  Pupils learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. We promote good manners to all children and  encourage children to engage in conversations with everyone. 

Toleration of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

We offer a culturally rich and diverse curriculum in which all major religions are studied and respected. We strongly believe that tolerance is gained through knowledge and understanding. We ensure that through our focused PSHEE days our children get the chance to understand different cultures and how we live in a multicultural society.  Through our curriculum and the routines of our daily school life, we strive to demonstrate tolerance and help children to become knowledgeable and gain an understanding of citizens who can build a better Britain for the future.

The Curriculum

The curriculum is regularly reviewed to ensure that it promotes the areas above. It also ensures that pupils are taught about key events and figures in history. Events during the year celebrate culturally diverse occasions and memorable events taking place in the country.

We will actively challenge children, staff or parents who express opinions that are contrary to fundamental British values including extremists views.