BRITISH VALUES

British Values were first introduced in 2011 as part of the government’s Prevent Strategy. In 2014, the Department for Education published guidance for schools on promoting these values.

The five key British Values are: Democracy, Rule of Law, Tolerance and Mutual Respect, and Individual Liberty. These values underpin the work we do as a school to support and develop our children to become responsible, thoughtful members of our community, preparing them for life in modern Britain. They are embedded throughout our curriculum.

These values are further reinforced by our school values of Curiosity, Resilience, Ambition, Community, Kindness, and Respect.

DEMOCRACY

Our school council is democratically elected during Parliament Week. Children have the opportunity to stand for election and give a campaign speech. Voting then takes place in the school hall, and two councillors per class (Years 2–6) are elected. The council meets regularly, with current projects including the School Eco-Award, improving playtimes, and fundraising.

Ideas from the School Council are fed into the Class Council, ensuring that every child’s voice is heard.

Democracy is also explored through our History curriculum and incorporated into English lessons, where children learn about voting, fairness, and the importance of sharing opinions.

RULE OF LAW

Our school rules are outlined in the Greenlands Promise:

To be safe
To be respectful
To be resilient
Treat others how we want to be treated

All children know these rules and understand that they are in place for their safety, both physical and mental wellbeing.

These rules are consistently reinforced across the curriculum. For example:

In Science, children follow clear procedures during experiments.
In PE, rules are applied in games to ensure fair play.
In Maths, children learn logical reasoning and consequences when problem-solving.

This helps children understand that laws and rules are essential for maintaining a safe and fair community.

TOLERANCE & MUTUAL RESPECT

Tolerance and respect are embedded in the PSHE and Religious Education (RE) curriculum. Lessons focus on understanding different cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles, promoting empathy and inclusivity.

These values are also reflected in our school rules, encouraging children to treat others with kindness and respect, and in our school values of Community and Kindness.

We actively foster an environment where everyone is valued, and acts of kindness and cooperation are celebrated.

INDIVIDUAL LIBERTY

We encourage children to develop their independence and decision-making skills in a safe environment. Opportunities to exercise personal freedom include:

Weekly class and assembly debates where children discuss topics respectfully and express their opinions.
Choice of extracurricular activities, allowing children to pursue interests they are passionate about.
Leadership roles, such as being part of the School Council or Eco-Monitors, help children take responsibility for projects.
Our Play Leaders choose activities, guide younger children and make decisions at playtimes, giving them the chance to exercise independence safely .

Through these activities, children learn to make informed choices while understanding their rights and responsibilities.