Promoting British Values at Betty Layward Primary School 

Democracy is embedded in our school. Children are always listened to by adults and are taught to listen carefully.

The 2014 DfE published guidance “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.”

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These are linked to our school values and are promoted through so much of what we do. As Rights Respecting School, we place the voice of the child at the heart of the school and aim to encourage our children to be caring, tolerant and respectful citizens of their local and global community.

Below are some of the ways in which we promote these fundamental British values at Betty Layward Primary School.​

Democracy

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Children are always listened to by adults and are taught to listen carefully and compassionately to each other, respecting everyone's right to have their opinions and voices heard. All children are encouraged to ‘use their words’. Pupils also have the opportunity to share their opinions and ideas through our School Council. The election of School Council members is based solely on pupil votes, reflecting our British electoral system and demonstrating democracy in action. The school council's work not only addresses issues raised by children but also informs the curriculum and the school's standards.

The Rule of Law

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The importance of laws, whether they govern our class (our class agreements), the school, or the country, is consistently reinforced throughout the school day, in discussions of behaviour, and at school assemblies. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws—that they govern and protect us—the responsibilities involved, and the consequences of breaking laws. Visits from authorities such as the Police and Fire Service help to reinforce this message.

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Individual Liberty

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Within the school, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school, we educate and set boundaries for young pupils to make choices safely through providing a secure environment and empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand, and exercise their rights and personal freedoms, and are advised on how to do this safely, for example through our E-Safety, Rights Respecting and PSHE lessons. Whether by choosing a learning challenge, how they record, or participating in our numerous extracurricular clubs and opportunities, pupils are given the freedom to make choices.

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Mutual Respect

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Mutual respect is fundamental to our values. Children learn that their behaviours affect their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community treat each other with respect. The children understand and recognise that it is expected and vital to show respect to everyone, regardless of our differences and to everything, no matter how big or small. Each class ensures everyone understands and agrees to be respectful to one another. Respect is a Betty Layward value.

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Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs

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Betty Layward Primary School is located in an area of rich cultural diversity, and our school ethos and values are centred around inclusion. Assemblies are frequently organised to address this topic either directly or by featuring stories and celebrations from various faiths and cultures. Our RE and PSHE lessons support this message. Members of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enrich learning within classes and throughout the school. Children visit places of worship significant to different faiths. Through this, our children develop a deeper understanding of their role in a culturally diverse society.