Promoting British Values at St Paul’s Catholic Primary School
As a Catholic school we follow the Gospel teachings – to love God and love one another. We follow the example set by Jesus. We believe we are all made in the image and likeness of God. We show our love for others through contributing to the common good. We show our love for others through respect for all members of God's family and as such reject all discrimination of any kind. This forms the basis for all that we do at St Paul’s and British Values are an integral part of this. Our Life to the Full RHE programme of work contributes to our British Values education for pupils in all year groups from Nursery to Year 6.
Democracy
Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Council and pupil questionnaires. Each year, elections are held and children engage in the democratic process by completing and returning ballot forms in a formal election procedure. The children have the chance to elect a representative from their class that they feel will represent their views. School Council candidates are required to prepare campaign speeches outlining their suitability for the role and their vision for the school. The School Council is actively involved in the life of the school and in the decision making processes.
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, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through school assemblies. 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.
Individual Liberty
Within school, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make choices safely, through our provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms. Our e-safety teaching encourages pupils to ask questions about online safety, so that they are aware of the benefits and dangers of the online world, both in and outside of school.
Mutual Respect
This is a fundamental part of our faith. Our ethos and behaviour policy are based on our school mission statement where, "In the family of St Paul's, we live and learn with Jesus' loving arms around us". Assemblies promote respect for others and the importance of good manners. All pupils are taught the importance of self-respect, honesty and fair play. Pupils work collaboratively and value others’ opinions.
Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
This is achieved through enhancing pupils understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity. Our new knowledge curriculum provides opportunities to study different cultures and faiths. In our RE scheme of work pupils learn about festivals and prayer in different world religions. This is supported by visits to places of worship.