British Values

In accordance with The Department for Education, we actively promote British values in our school. This is to ensure that our young people leave school prepared for life in modern Britain. Pupils are encouraged to regard people of all faiths, races and cultures with respect and tolerance and understand that while different people may hold different views about what is ‘right’ and ‘wrong’, all people living in England are subject to its law. Our school reflects British values in all that we do. We aim to nurture our children on their journey through life so they can grow into safe, caring, democratic, responsible and tolerant adults who make a positive difference to British society and to
the world and the wider world.

The Key British Values are:
– Democracy
– Rule of law
– Individual liberty
– Mutual respect
– Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

Democracy

Pupil voice is valued at Skelton Primary, with children being asked their opinions and suggestions about school matters.

This includes their views on:
– The equipment needed to be purchased for the playground to improve playtimes
– Voting on the book we read at story time
– Voting for songs to sing in assembly.
– Contributing to suggestions for the use of the school’s fundraising.

Regular meetings of the democratically-selected School Council and Eco Reps from all year groups, ensure that pupils are able to make valuable contributions to the development of the School. Our Anti-bullying ambassadors and Reading Buddie also provide excellent role models for younger pupils and often represent the school in different ways.

We teach democracy through assemblies and our school curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to become involved in decision-making processes and staff ensure they are listened to in school. We help pupils to express their views in a safe and supportive environment.

The Rule of Law

Pupils throughout Skelton Primary School develop their understanding of what is right and what is wrong.

Each year, the children are involved in developing their own class rules and routines. These link to whole school expectations such as: a whole school signal to gain attention, how we walk in corridors and uniform expectations. Our school behaviour policy helps us to teach the children the behaviour rules of our school. The behaviour chart is used consistently in every class and parents are informed of positive behaviours through bronze and silver stickers and also of behaviours which are of a concern through conversations with the class teacher. The children were involved in choosing the behaviours to define the colours on the chart.

Following school rules links to rewards within our weekly Good Work assembly. Certificates regularly link to positive behaviours.

Through their daily School life and explicitly in PHSE lessons, the children develop their understanding of actions, responsibilities and consequences. We help pupils to respect the law and the basis on which it is made. Visits from authorities such as the Police, Fire Service and Lifeguards  are regular parts of our calendar and help reinforce this message. We cover different types of rules within the curriculum such as online safety and anti-bullying.

Individual Liberty

Within School, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment.

From the earliest age, Reception and Year 1 pupils exercise individual freedoms through their child-initiated learning.

As a School, we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make choices safely through the provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely. We offer a range of clubs which pupils have the freedom to choose from, based on their interests and skills. Through our E-Safety lessons, we educate children on their rights and personal freedoms as well as supporting them in recognising how to exercise these freedoms safely. In weekly circle times, all children are encouraged to share their feelings in a safe way.

Mutual Respect

Respect is one of our five school values and mutual respect is at the core of school life.

It is an expectation that every member of the School’s community demonstrates a respectful attitude at all times. Discussions, assemblies, team games in PE and PSHE lessons across the school help to reinforce this message. Bullying is not tolerated and pupils are taught about the different types of bullying, why they might occur and discuss possible strategies for dealing with incidents should they witness any. Our Anti-bullying ambassadors support this throughout school.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

Our aim at Skelton is to create an ethos of inclusivity and tolerance where views, faith, cultures and races are valued.

This is achieved through enhancing pupils’ understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity. Prejudices and racism are explored in assemblies and key texts. PSHE lessons and morning circles offer opportunities to challenge stereotypes.

At Skelton, we follow York RE agreed syllabus which ensures that all children learn about the main religions and teaches respect and understanding for the cultures, beliefs, opinions and traditions of others. The curriculum ensures that each year group learns about different religions and that there are opportunities for religious visits and visitors. We also encourage children to lead assemblies to share their experiences of religious festivals e.g. Diwali and Eid.