At Westfield School we ensure that British values are introduced, discussed and lived out through the ethos and work of the school. All curriculum areas provide a vehicle for further understanding of these concepts and in particular, through spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. In our RE and PSHE lessons we provide opportunities to deepen and develop this understanding.
Here are some examples of how we reinforce and promote the British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those with different beliefs:
Democracy
Pupils have opportunities for their voices to be heard. Two council members from each year group are voted by each class to represent the School Council. They meet regularly to discuss issues raised by pupils.
Classroom/school roles of responsibility – Pupils put themselves forward for responsible positions such as sports leaders, peer mediators and assembly monitors.
Pupils are encouraged to debate through discussion and writing, presenting balanced arguments and ethical decisions. For example in Key Stage 2 pupils debate the pros and cons of wearing a school uniform, being given homework and animals kept in zoos.
Pupil/Carer questionnaires.
The Rule of Law
The importance of laws, are consistently reinforced throughout the school curriculum. Pupils are taught the value and reason behind laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. This is particularly discussed in PSHE and Citizenship where Equality issues, Behaviour and Anti-Bullying Policies are addressed.
Westfield School has very good links with authorities such as the Police and Fire Service, who visit every year and help to reinforce the Rule of Law.
Classroom rules and expected behaviour are discussed and displayed in the classroom.
Other rewards such as merits, certificates and trophies are also awarded for behaviour and exceptional work
Pupils learn about road safety and have the opportunity to participate in Bikeability.
Online safety is regularly discussed with pupils in computing lessons.
Pupils compete in sports tournaments such as football, netball and cross country where rules are followed.
Individual Liberty
There are many opportunities for child-led learning. In a variety of curriculum areas pupils make choices about how they work and challenge themselves.
Choosing which books they would like to read from the school library.
After-school clubs are offered for children to choose from based on their interests. These have included baking, netball, art and pond-dipping clubs.
Mutual Respect
Good manners and respect are modelled by all members of the school community. Our pupils are encouraged to respect and appreciate each other; no matter what differences may exist. We encourage respect for family, friends and other groups; the world and its people; and the environment.
Children learn songs from a variety of cultures and play instruments, celebrating different national and global communities
Learning Spanish and finding out about about Spanish/Latin American culture and traditions. Year 6 children have penfriends in Tortosa, Spain.
Having a well-established link with a school in Uganda, the Children in Year 4 get the chance to exchange letters and find out about the Ugandan culture.
Raising money for local and national charities
Harvest gifts delivered to the local homeless project
Selling poppies in school
Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
We celebrate different religious festivals through assemblies and teaching about different religions, customs and family groups throughout the school.
During RE, we celebrate a wide variety of religious festivals and invite visitors to talk to the children about their faith and religion.