Equality and Diversity, British Values

In March 2021, we became the first school in Lincolnshire to sign up to the Empowering Equity in Education pledge. Below sets out our commitment to this pledge:

Promoting Fundamental British Values at Sibsey

We aim to actively promote British values in schools to ensure young people leave school prepared for life in modern Britain. This ties in very strongly with our 5 values and steps to success. 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.

The Key Values are:

·        democracy

·        rule of law

·        individual liberty

·        mutual respect

·        tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

How this is done at Sibsey Free Primary School:

We help children to remember the British Values through the thumb and finger model:

        Thumb – democracy – up or down to give opinion.

            Index finger – Rule of Law - pointing

            Middle finger – Tolerance of different faiths and beliefs – tallest finger pointing to God.

            Ring Finger – Mutual respect – wedding ring – respect for other people

            Little finger – Individual Liberty – sticks out on its own.

We actively promote British values through

Focusing on and showing how the school’s work is effective in securing these values

Challenging pupils, staff or parents who express opinions contrary to British values

Democracy – what do we do?

Provide pupils with a broad general knowledge of, and promote respect for, public institutions and services

Teach pupils how they can influence decision-making through the democratic process

Include in the curriculum information on the advantages and disadvantages of democracy and how it works in Britain

Encourage pupils to become involved in decision-making processes and ensure they are listened to in school

KS2 – have workshops with Parliament to understand democracy

Help pupils to express their views

Model how perceived injustice can be peacefully challenged

Democracy is shown through history topics where relevant

Talk Together Time and discussion groups

Rule of law – what do we do?

Ensure school rules and expectations are clear and fair

Classroom Golden Rules

Celebration of adhering to these rules

Help pupils to distinguish right from wrong

Help pupils to respect the law and the basis on which it is made

Help pupils to understand that living under the rule of law protects individuals

Include visits from the police across the year

Individual liberty – what do we do?

Support pupils to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence

Encourage pupils to take responsibility for their behaviour, as well as knowing their rights

Model freedom of speech through pupil participation, while ensuring protection of vulnerable pupils and promoting critical analysis of evidence

Challenge stereotypes Implement a strong anti-bullying culture

Anti-Bullying learning

Online Safety through school

Respect and tolerance – what do we do?

Promote respect for individual differences

Help pupils to acquire an understanding of, and respect for, their own and other cultures and ways of life

Challenge prejudicial or discriminatory behaviour

Organise visits to places of worship

Develop links with faith and other communities through RE and working alongside children and their families

Learning to disagree in a respectful way

Develop critical personal thinking skills