Citizenship and British Values are embedded across our curriculum and throughout our school.
We 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.
Through our varied curriculum, supported by our efforts to promote Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural development we aim to develop within our pupils:
- an understanding of how citizens can influence decision-making through the democratic process;
- an appreciation that living under the rule of law protects individual citizens and is essential for their wellbeing and safety;
- an understanding that there is a separation of power between the Government and the justice system, and that while some public bodies such as the police and the army can be held to account through Parliament, others such as the courts maintain independence;
- an understanding that the freedom to choose and hold other faiths and beliefs is protected in law;
- an acceptance that other people having different faiths or beliefs to oneself (or having none) should be accepted and tolerated, and should not be the cause of prejudicial or discriminatory behaviour; and
- an understanding of the importance of identifying and combating discrimination.
Our approach will help pupils:
- to recognise the difference between right and wrong and to readily apply this understanding in their own lives, recognise legal boundaries and, in so doing, respect the civil and criminal law of England
- accept and engage with the fundamental British Values listed above; develop and be able to demonstrate skills and attitudes that will allow them to participate fully in and contribute positively to life in modern Britain.
- understand and appreciate the wide range of cultural influences that have shaped their own heritage and those of others
- understand and appreciate of the range of different cultures within school and further afield as an essential element of their preparation for life in modern Britain
- develop a knowledge of Britain’s democratic parliamentary system and its central role in shaping our history and values, and in continuing to develop Britain
Our citizenship enrichment programme aims to ensure that all our pupils:
- Acquire a sound knowledge and understanding of how the United Kingdom is governed, its political system and how citizens participate actively in its democratic systems of government
- Develop a sound knowledge and understanding of the role of law and the justice system in our society and how laws are shaped and enforced
- Develop an interest in, and commitment to, participation in volunteering as well as other forms of responsible activity, that they will take with them into adulthood
- Are equipped with the skills to think critically and debate political questions, to enable them to manage their money on a day-to-day basis, and plan for future financial needs.
