The DfE has 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 and those without faith.’

The Government set out its definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent strategy and these values have been reiterated in 2014.

Democracy

Children are listened to and are taught to listen carefully to others. Children are taught to respect the right of individuals to have their voices and opinions heard. They are taught to discuss issues in a balanced and calm way. Each year the children review the school rules and class charters to ensure that they are still relevant. The school council meets regularly and discusses issues raised in class or as a whole school. Each council member is voted for by their own class. Children have regular questionnaires where they are able to put forward their views about the school.

The Rule of Law

The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school or the country are consistently reinforced at Cutthorpe Primary School. Pupils are taught from an early age the value of the school rules. Children are taught the value and the reason behind the rules and the laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibility this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as local councillors, Police and the fire service help to reinforce this message.

Individual Liberty

At Cutthorpe Primary School, children are actively encouraged to make the right choices, knowing they are in a safe and supportive environment. Children are expected to take responsibility for their own actions and to understand the consequence their actions might have. We educate and provide boundaries for children to enable them to make informed choices. The understanding of rights and responsibilities are promoted through acts of collective worship, online safety and PSHE.

Mutual Respect

Mutual respect is a core value at Cutthorpe Primary School. Children learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community treat each other with respect.

Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

Cutthorpe Primary School is situated in an area that is not greatly, culturally diverse. The school recognises its role in preparing children for life in modern Britain. We actively promote celebrations of different faiths and cultures. The religious education syllabus is the agreed Derbyshire syllabus. Through RE and personal and social education we reinforce messages of tolerance and respect.