British Values

At Southgate Primary School we actively take opportunities to teach British Values: 

• Democracy

• Rule of law

• Individual liberty

• Mutual respect

• Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs 

Democracy

Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Council; the elections of the pupil council are based solely on pupil votes. Pupils are also given opportunities to put themselves forward for other responsibilities within the school.

The Importance of Laws

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. Our school values teaches pupils the importance of shared rules and reasons behind laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Fire Service and the police are regular parts of our calendar and help to reinforce this message.

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 confidently and safely. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised on how to exercise these safely. This is explored, for example, through our E-Safety curriculum and PSHE lessons. Throughout the academic year, pupils are offered the opportunity to participate in extra-curricular clubs, workshops and events which allow them to exercise their individual choice.

Mutual Respect

Part of our whole school ethos and behaviour system has revolved around the Zones of Regulation and our Excellent Behaviour expectations. These are central to every aspect of the children’s learning and allow us to talk about how we learn, foster excellent behaviour and give the children lifelong skills. Pupils follow the school values in every aspect of school life and these are a focus for class discussions and assemblies. The whole school uses the Excellent Behaviours to reinforce good conduct and parents are encouraged to reinforce this at home. 

Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

At Southgate, we value the diverse ethnic backgrounds of all pupils and families and, where possible, members of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within their classes and the whole school. Assemblies and discussions involving prejudices are followed up and supported by learning in RE and PSHE. Our RE and PSHE curriculum have designated topic areas to focus on and celebrate similarities and differences in other faiths and beliefs. Assemblies, theme weeks and workshops offer pupils enriched experiences to deepen their understanding, tolerance and knowledge of our culturally diverse society.

Assemblies

British values are central to our assemblies through highlighting and commemorating key events past and present. These include Remembrance Day which teaches the children about the impact that the two World wars had on Britain and the role that Britain played. Children are also given the opportunity to purchase poppies and the whole school takes part in a minute silence to show their respect for the thousands that lost their lives during these times.

In recent years we have celebrated key British events through special assemblies and themed lessons. Throughout the school year, children learn about and support different charities and take part in events such as Christmas Jumper Day and Children in Need.