Promoting British Values at St Richard’s Catholic Primary School

At St Richard’s Catholic Primary School, we are committed to promoting and embedding British Values throughout our community. In line with Ofsted guidance (September 2014), we aim to ensure that pupils develop tolerance, respect and understanding for people of all faiths, beliefs and backgrounds. We prepare our children to thrive in modern Britain, nurturing them to become responsible, respectful and active citizens.

We uphold British Values through our school vision, ethos, policies, curriculum and daily practice. Our aim is to equip children with the knowledge, skills and values they need to make positive contributions to society.

Democracy

Democracy is a key element of life at St Richard’s. We provide opportunities for all pupils to have their voices heard and contribute to school decisions through:

• School assemblies and collective worship focusing on respect, choices, and moral values.

• Religious Education lessons exploring a range of faiths and beliefs.

• St Richard’s School and Eco council which allow pupils to vote and express their views.

• Our Mission Statement, which promotes respect, inclusivity and celebration of diversity.

• School rules and behaviour policies developed with pupil input.

• Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE).

• Strong connections with our parish, local community and charitable activities.

• Pupil questionnaires and feedback opportunities.

• Peer support and buddy systems.

• History lessons that reflect the development of British society and democratic values.

The Rule of Law

The importance of rules and laws is continually reinforced in our school. Pupils learn the purpose of laws, their role in keeping us safe, and the consequences of breaking them. This is achieved through:

• Classroom and school rules.

• Behaviour expectations taught from a young age.

• Assemblies and discussions on justice and fairness.

• Visits from external authorities such as the Police, Fire Service and Ambulance Service.

Individual Liberty

At St Richard’s, pupils are encouraged to make independent choices within a safe and supportive environment. We foster individual liberty by:

• Providing a secure setting where children feel confident to express themselves.

• Teaching pupils to understand their rights and responsibilities.

• Promoting safe decision-making through E-Safety and PSHE lessons.

• Offering a wide range of extra-curricular activities and learning challenges.

• Encouraging pupils to take ownership of their learning.

Mutual Respect

Respect is central to our mission and ethos. Through collective worship, PSHE themes and everyday interactions, children learn the importance of treating others with kindness and dignity. Respect is reinforced through:

• Classroom and playground expectations.

• Our whole school behaviour policy.

• Discussions on positive relationships and empathy.

Acceptance of Those with Different Faiths and Beliefs

We celebrate diversity and encourage understanding of different faiths and cultures. This is supported through:

• Learning about world religions in RE and themed faith weeks.

• Assemblies and discussions on prejudice, tolerance and inclusion.

• Inviting visitors from different religious backgrounds to share experiences.

• Encouraging pupils from diffrent faith backgrounds to share and celebrate their culture and Religion 

At St Richard’s Catholic Primary School, we strive to ensure that British Values are not just taught but lived. Through our daily practice, we aim to nurture compassionate, respectful and well-rounded individuals prepared for life in modern Britain.

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