The Edge Academy recognise that fundamental British values are defined as:
- Democracy – Understanding how democratic processes work and how the UK uses them to govern
- Individual liberty – Learning about rights, freedoms and responsibilities as individuals within a society
- Rule of law – Exploring the importance of laws in maintaining a safe and fair society, as well as students’ responsibilities within this framework
- Mutual respect/Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs – Fostering an environment of mutual respect and tolerance among students of different backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures. (Sometimes people view these as separate values, but they are closely linked.)
We feel it is important to create safe spaces where pupils can discuss complex issues such as citizenship, equality and belonging.
We need to be able to support pupils to become critical thinkers, understand propaganda and persuasion techniques and develop the knowledge and skills to reject stereotypes, prejudice and hate.
Teaching British values in schools can help you to nurture critical thinkers and active citizens who respect others and challenge prejudice and discrimination.
Examples of embedding British values at The Edge Academy:
Democracy
- Invite young people to democratically elect a school council
- Ask parents and young people to complete a biannual questionnaire and use the comments to make improvements to the school
Rule of law
- Reinforce the importance of school, class and country laws, as well as rules when dealing with behaviour
- Invite visitors from local police to reinforce young people’s understanding of the responsibilities held by various professions
- Create and reinforce golden rules, playground rules and safety rules within the school
Individual liberty
- Deliver e-safety and Life Skills lessons to all students
- Learn about human rights and explore what these mean for young people
- Teach the importance of speaking up about problems and sharing them with a trusted adult
Mutual respect/tolerance
- Join in with Anti-Bullying Week and teach children to value differences in others and themselves and to respect others
- Ensure your behaviour policy is consistent and that young people take responsibility to resolve conflict and repair relationships
- Celebrate events such as Black History Month, LGBT History Month, Disability History Month and Refugee Week