British Values at Brookfield Community Primary School

In November 2014, the Department for Education (DfE) published guidance on Promoting British Values as part of SMSC in schools. The guidance reinforced the need for schools to actively promote the fundamental British values of:

• Democracy
• The Rule of Law
• Individual Liberty
• Mutual Respect
• Tolerance of Those with Different Faiths and Beliefs

These values were first outlined by the Government within the 2011 Prevent Strategy and continue to play an important role in preparing children for life in modern Britain.

At Brookfield Community Primary School, we are committed to developing and promoting British Values throughout our school community and curriculum. We aim to ensure that all children become respectful, responsible and active members of society who are well-prepared for life in modern Britain.

Picture News and British Values

At Brookfield Community Primary School, we use Picture News to help children explore and understand the world around them while developing their understanding of the fundamental British Values.

This is delivered through a weekly whole-school assembly and is reinforced through classroom discussions and activities throughout the week.

Through engaging, age-appropriate news stories, images and discussion activities, pupils are encouraged to share their views, listen respectfully to others and consider different perspectives.

Picture News provides meaningful opportunities to promote democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. By discussing real-life events and current issues, children develop their critical thinking skills, learn to form and express informed opinions and gain a greater understanding of their role within their school, local community and the wider world.

Through this approach, we aim to create confident, respectful and responsible citizens who are prepared to contribute positively to life in modern Britain.

How We Promote British Values

We strive to uphold these values throughout school life, enabling children to develop:

• An understanding of how citizens can influence decision-making through democratic processes.
• An understanding that the freedom to hold different faiths and beliefs is protected by law.
• An acceptance and respect for people of all faiths, beliefs and backgrounds.
• An understanding of the importance of identifying and challenging discrimination.
• Respect for the values and principles that help create a safe, inclusive and welcoming society.

Our school's vision, values and aims reflect these principles and the whole school community works together to uphold them every day.

Celebrating Diversity and British Culture

As a school, we value and celebrate the diverse heritage of every member of our community. Alongside this, we are proud to celebrate our place within Britain and the wider world.

Throughout the year, children take part in a range of events and celebrations, including:

• Christmas celebrations and pantomimes
• Macmillan Coffee Morning
• Chinese New Year
• Safer Internet Day

These experiences help children appreciate different cultures, traditions and communities while developing respect for others.

British Values Through Our Curriculum

British Values are embedded across our curriculum and help children understand their place in Britain and the wider world.

Examples include:

• Geography topics focus on Britain's rivers, coastlines and landscapes, helping children understand the physical features of the United Kingdom and its place within Europe and the wider world.
• History studies exploring significant periods and events in British history, including the Tudors and the Great Fire of London.
• Learning about influential historical figures such as Florence Nightingale and the impact they have had on British society.
• Opportunities across all curriculum subjects to discuss fairness, responsibility, rights, respect and citizenship.

By embedding British Values in everyday school life, we help our pupils develop the knowledge, understanding and character needed to thrive as positive, respectful and responsible citizens.