Promoting British Values at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School

As a Catholic school we follow the Gospel teachings – to love God and love one another. We follow the example set by Jesus. We believe we are all made in the image and likeness of God. We show our love for others through contributing to the common good. We show our love for others through respect for all members of God’s family and as such reject all discrimination of any kind. This forms the basis for all that we do at St Mary’s and British Values are an integral part of this. Our PSHE programme of work contributes to our British Values education for pupils in all year groups from Nursery to Year 6.

The Rule of Law

The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout regular school days, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through school assemblies. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken.

Individual Liberty

Within school, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make choices safely, through our provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms. Our e-safety teaching encourages pupils to ask questions about online safety, so that they are aware of the benefits and dangers of the online world, both in and outside of school.

Mutual Respect

This is a fundamental part of our faith. Our ethos and behaviour policy are based on our school mission statement where, ‘Love conquers all’. Assemblies promote respect for others and the importance of good manners. All pupils are taught the importance of self-respect, honesty and fair play. Pupils work collaboratively and value others’ opinions.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

This is achieved through enhancing pupils understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity. Our new knowledge curriculum provides opportunities to study different cultures and faiths. In our RE scheme of work  pupils learn about festivals and prayer in different world religions.