At Indian Queens Primary School we uphold and teach pupils about British Values which are defined as:
democracy
rule of law
individual liberty
mutual respect
tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
These values are taught explicitly through PSHCE and RE as well as through opportunities that occur across the broad and balanced curriculum that we offer. We ensure that we look for all opportunities to explore these values during our curriculum planning and delivery. We also actively promote these values through assemblies and whole school systems and structures.
Democracy
Democracy is an important value at our school. Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Parliament, where all children are able to participate and contribute their ideas and preferences. Pupils are encouraged to express their opinions as to how to make our school better, and what their role is in helping to achieve this. Pupils are always listened to by adults and are taught to listen carefully and with concern to one another, respecting the right of every individual to have their opinions and voices heard. We encourage pupils to take ownership of not only their school but also of their own learning and progress. This encourages a heightened sense of both personal and social responsibility and is demonstrated on a daily basis by our pupils.
The Rule of Law
The importance of laws and rules, whether they are those that govern the class, the school or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout regular school days. Pupils are involved in deciding class rules and pupil contracts linked to anti-bullying and antiracism.
Our system for behaviour is aligned to an agreed set of class rules and if children are given verbal warnings or sanctions these are always set against the agreed rules. Pupils are taught the value 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 police, fire service etc. occur regularly and help reinforce this message.
To encourage and promote good behaviour and positive attitudes, we operate a reward system of Good Work Awards which is consistently followed throughout the school. We are committed to praising children’s efforts informally, individually, during group work, in front of the whole class and the whole school. Children know that they will be rewarded for positive attitudes and behaviours.
Individual Liberty
Pupils are actively encouraged to make choices at our school, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we provide boundaries for our children to make choices safely, through the provision of a safe environment and planned curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely. Pupils are given the freedom to make choices, e.g. signing up for extra-curricular clubs. They are also taught that alongside rights are responsibilities which they need to exercise.
Mutual Respect
Our school ethos, as well as our Behaviour Policy, is based around core values such as ‘respect’ and ‘responsibility’ and these values determine how we live as a community at Indian Queens School.
Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
Enabling all children to show tolerance towards others is central to everything we do at Indian Queens School. We explore issues linked to tolerance in Assemblies, RE and PSHCE specifically and children and their families are encouraged to contribute their own experiences and knowledge to enhance the learning within classes and the school. We will not tolerate any prejudice or prejudice based bullying in school.
