SMSC and British Values
Promoting British Values at St. John’s Walham Green
The DfE have recently reinforced the need “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.”
The promotion of British Values is a fundamental part of the national curriculum and should be recognised throughout all areas of school life. At St. John’s these are reinforced regularly in the following ways:
Democracy
Pupils have opportunities to have their voices heard through PSHE activities and class discussions. Pupils are encouraged to share their views about the school, including learning and enrichment opportunities. These views are then considered by the staff and school council. The school council meets regularly to discuss issues raised within class. School Councillors (1 per class) are voted in by their peers after stating why they wish to be considered for the role.
Pupils are also encouraged to devise and agree their class code of conduct at the beginning of each academic year.
All staff opinions are valued and adults are encouraged to share their ideas to achieve outstanding practice and to provide a forward-looking team.
House Captains (4 houses) are voted in by all house members after stating why they wish to be considered for the role.
The Rule of Law
Pupils understand that rules are made to protect us and therefore all pupils are expected to adhere to the class, playground and dining room rules, which are all displayed prominently. Positive behaviour strategies provide clear boundaries and the development of self-discipline. All pupils understand that there are consequences for wrong choices recorded on the differentiated sanction ladders in each class.
The importance of laws in school, at home and in the wider world are consistently reinforced during the school day including school worship. Planned visits in the Curriculum from the Police and Fire Services reinforce this message and explain the importance of adhering to the laws which govern our land, and the consequences of breaking them.
Individual Liberty
Pupils are encouraged to make choices from the Nursery onwards, secure in the knowledge that they are safe. We provide strong boundaries within a safe and secure environment. Pupils are encouraged to voice their opinions and are guided to making safe choices through PSHE and E-safety lessons. All pupils are taught e-safety rules to keep them safe on the internet. Older pupils are made aware of the dangers of social networking. An annual e-safety focus week reminds children of the complexities of exercising their rights and personal freedom whilst doing so safely.
Pupils are given opportunities to make choices in the classroom and to decide whether they wish to participate in extra-curricular activities and clubs. All school activities and classrooms are inclusive and encourage pupils to be self-disciplined.
Mutual Respect
As a faith school, Christian values are at the heart of our school. Our motto of ‘Love One Another’ is fostered in order to encourage mutual respect between all members of the school community.
Reflective time in lessons and assemblies provide opportunities for all to consider their contribution to their own wellbeing and the ethos of the school.
Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs
We are a multicultural school and pupils interact with a variety of cultures and backgrounds, which enhances their understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society. We provide opportunities for the pupils to follow traditional activities and support local and global charities.
Collective worship, PSHE and RE lessons regularly promote discussion of these issues. Members of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge and pupils visit places of worship as part of the curriculum.
Our staff will actively challenge any pupils, staff or parents expressing opinions contrary to fundamental British Values. We are vigilant to any obsessive attitudes or behaviour, which might give cause for concern and will notify appropriate authorities for advice.
SMSC
SMSC stands for spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. We actively promote the SMSC development of our pupils.
Spiritual
Explore beliefs and experience; respect faiths, feelings and values; enjoy learning about oneself, others and the surrounding world; use imagination and creativity; reflect.
Moral
Recognise right and wrong; respect the law; understand consequences; investigate moral and ethical issues; offer reasoned views.
Social
Investigate moral issues; appreciate diverse viewpoints; participate, volunteer and cooperate; resolve conflict; engage with the fundamental values of British democracy.
Cultural
Appreciate cultural influences; appreciate the role of Britain’s parliamentary system; participate in culture opportunities; understand, accept, respect and celebrate diversity.