British Values

At New Christ Church CE Primary, we are committed to preparing our pupils to be responsible, respectful and active citizens who contribute positively to society. We promote the fundamental British Values of:

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

These values are embedded throughout our curriculum, assemblies, enrichment opportunities and everyday school life.

Democracy

We encourage pupils to understand that everyone has a voice and that opinions should be listened to and respected. Children learn how democratic processes work and experience them first-hand.

Examples of classroom activities:

• Voting for School Council representatives
• School council Plan.
• Class votes to make decisions about learning themes, books or rewards.
• Circle time discussions where pupils share and justify their opinions. Could we change circle time to PSHE discussions as not sure if children were asked about circle time in pupil voice, they would make the connection
• Debates on age-appropriate topics.
• Creating class charters and agreeing shared expectations
• Talk Homework discussions.

The Rule of Law

Pupils learn the importance of rules, responsibilities and consequences. We help children understand that laws and rules are designed to keep people safe, protect rights and promote fairness.

Examples of classroom activities:

• Developing and reviewing classroom rules together.
• Golden Rules
• Learning about laws through PSHE, Class Worship assemblies and History lessons.
• Visits from police officers, firefighters and other community representatives.
• Exploring the consequences of choices through stories and real-life scenarios.
• Studying significant historical events where laws have changed over time.

Individual Liberty

We support pupils in making informed choices and taking responsibility for their actions. Children are encouraged to develop confidence, resilience and independence within a safe and supportive environment.

Examples of classroom activities:

• Taking on leadership roles such as play leaders, reading ambassadors, worship leaders and school council, peer buddies between Year 5 and reception.
• Discussions about online safety and making safe choices- IT Charter.
• Encouraging pupils to express their ideas creatively through art, writing and performance
• Therapeutic behaviour approach and respect for others
• OPAL - playtime creativity

Mutual Respect

Respect is at the heart of our school community. We teach children to value themselves and others and to appreciate the contributions that everyone makes.

Examples of classroom activities:

• Talk Partner and group work that promotes teamwork and cooperation.
• Using restorative conversations to resolve disagreements.
• Oracy - promoting good listening and responding
• Celebrating achievements and recognising the efforts of others-Celebration Assembly.
• Exploring themes of kindness, empathy and inclusion through literature-school values.
• Participating in anti-bullying activities and awareness events.
• Inclusion

Tolerance of Different Faiths, Beliefs and Cultures

We celebrate diversity and help pupils develop an understanding of the rich variety of cultures, faiths and beliefs represented in modern Britain and beyond.

Examples of classroom activities:

• Learning about different religions through RE lessons.
• Celebrating cultural and religious festivals such as Diwali, Eid, Christmas, Hanukkah and Chinese New Year.
• Exploring stories, music and traditions from around the world.
• Welcoming visitors/ pupils  from different faith and cultural communities.
• Studying significant people who have contributed to society from a range of backgrounds.

Our Commitment

British Values are not taught as a standalone subject; they are woven throughout school life. Through our curriculum, assemblies, pupil leadership opportunities, educational visits and positive relationships, we help children develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to thrive in modern Britain.

By promoting these values, we aim to nurture confident, caring and respectful young people who are well prepared for life in a diverse and democratic society.