In accordance with the Department for Education (DofE) document: Promoting fundamental British values as part of SMSC in schools, Departmental advice for maintained schools, November 2014, we aim to actively promote British Values in school to ensure that our pupils leave school prepared for life in modern Britain.

At Bunny Church of England Primary School, we value the diversity of the backgrounds of all pupils, families and the wider school community and strongly believe in upholding British values through all aspects of our school provision.

The DfE states that there is a 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”.

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. At Bunny school these values are reflected in our own school values of Courage, Honesty, Aspiration, Peace, Respect and Love.

What is meant by British values?

Learning about British values forms a key part of children’s spiritual, moral, cultural and social education. The five British values that the Government has identified for schools to focus on are:

Democracy.

How citizens can influence decision making through the democratic process.

The rule of law.

An appreciation that living under the rule of law protects individual citizens.

An understanding that bodies such as the police and the army can be held to account by the people, through the democratic organs of government.

Individual liberty.

The freedom to make your own choices and express yourself, while respecting the law and the rights of others.

Mutual respect.

Accepting and valuing differences in people, even when you disagree with them. Shows proper regard for the dignity of others and is central to creating a harmonious, inclusive and civilised society where everyone feels valued and is treated with kindness, tolerance and consideration.

Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.

 People of different faiths or no faith at all should be accepted and respected without prejudice or discrimination. Understanding and appreciating diverse cultures and beliefs and not imposing ones views on others.

How should we help our children prepare for adult life as citizens of Britain?

Develop their self-confidence and self-esteem.

Develop their understanding of right and wrong, and their respect for the law.

Encourage them to take responsibility for their behaviour.

Encourage positive involvement in the community and wider society.

Encourage respect for the public services and institutions of Britain.

Promote tolerance of and respect for all cultures and faiths.

Encourage participation in the democratic process.