British Values

The Department for Education has published guidance on promoting British Values in schools, to ensure young people leave school prepared for life in modern Britain.

Democracy

Democracy is alive within our school. Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through, for example, our Student Councillors and Eco-Warriors. 

Our children are also asked for their views through discussions with governors and staff, and through pupil questionnaires. Our Student Councillors and House Captains are elected solely on a pupil vote.

The Rule of Law

The importance of laws and rules - whether they relate to the class, the school or the country - are consistently reinforced throughout the school day. This is done through, for example, how we deal with behaviour and through school assemblies. 

Pupils are taught the value of and reasons behind laws, and how they govern and protect us. They also learn about the responsibilities of citizens and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Police and Fire Service are regular parts of our calendar and help reinforce this message. 

Individual Liberty 

Pupils are encouraged to make choices - knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. 

The UNICEF Rights of the Child are central to how we relate to each other. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are taught how to exercise these freedoms safely through, for example, our e-Safety and PSHE lessons. 

We act as role models to ensure our pupils respect everyone equally and are aware of the nine protected characteristics in an age-appropriate way. We respect all differences including race, age, religion and beliefs, gender, disability, sexual orientation, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity.

Mutual Respect

Atkinson Road Primary Academy is a wonderful, culturally diverse school with a highly-regarded inclusive ethos and practice. The school is becoming more multi-cultural and we celebrate this. 

Our children are taught and know how to show respect to everyone, no matter what the differences between us may be. We also build this diversity into our curriculum by, for example, celebrating different religious festivals throughout the year. We also have our own multi-faith prayer room.

Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

Our RE curriculum reinforces an understanding of other religions and cultures. This understanding is also developed through assemblies, where we share multi-faith celebrations including Easter, Diwali and Eid. 

Members of staff of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning, and children also visit local places of worship that are important to different faiths.