British Values
At Elm Academy we have created our own values working alongside the British Values.
At Elm Academy
We actively promote the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
Democracy
- School Councils: Give students a voice through a school council or class representatives, allowing them to vote on school issues, fundraisers, or other initiatives. This helps them understand democratic decision-making.
- Class Votes: We hold votes on class decisions, like choosing books to read or activities for play time, so students experience democracy first hand.
- Debates and Discussions: We encourage students to debate topics respectfully, teaching them the importance of listening to others and expressing their own opinions in a constructive way.
The Rule of Law
- Classroom and School Rules: Involve students in creating classroom rules, so they understand the purpose and importance of having rules. We discuss how rules are essential for a safe and productive learning environment.
- Reward and Consequence Systems: Clearly explain the consequences for breaking rules and the rewards for following them, helping students understand accountability and responsibility.
- Role of Authority Figures: Invite local police officers or other community leaders to talk to students about their roles, the law, and its importance in maintaining safety and justice.
Individual Liberty
- Freedom of Choice in Learning: Allow students to make choices about certain parts of their learning, like selecting books for reading time, which encourages self-expression and autonomy.
- Encourage Self-Expression: Create a safe environment where students feel they can express themselves, whether through art, writing, or other forms of creativity, while learning that freedom comes with responsibility.
- Teaching About Rights and Freedoms: Use age-appropriate materials to teach students about the rights and freedoms they have so they understand their rights and respect the rights of others.
Mutual Respect and Tolerance
- Modelling Respectful Behaviour: Teachers and staff model respect in their interactions with students and colleagues, showing that everyone deserves kindness and consideration.
- Anti-Bullying Programs: We have implemented anti-bullying initiatives to help children understand the importance of kindness and respect in a diverse society.
- Celebrate Individual Achievements: Highlight students’ individual successes, so all feel valued and respected for their contributions, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
- Celebration of Cultural and Religious Diversity: We celebrate a variety of religions and cultural events, such as Diwali, Eid and Christmas, allowing students to learn about and appreciate traditions and beliefs.
By incorporating these values into daily lessons, interactions, and activities, we help our pupils develop a strong foundation in British values, preparing them to be respectful, responsible, and active members of society.
