The Department for Education states that there is a 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”.
The Department for Education defines British Values as follows:
Respect for democracy and support or participation in the democratic process
Respect for the basis on which the law is made and applies in England
Support for equality of opportunity for all
Support and respect for the liberties of all within the law
Respect for and tolerance of different faiths and religious and other beliefs
Mawnan CE VA Primary School is committed to serving its community and we believe it is essential that these British Values permeate through every aspect of the school. We recognise the multi-cultural, multi faith and changing nature of the United Kingdom and understand the vital role we have in ensuring that groups or individuals within the school are not subjected to intimidation or radicalisation.
Through the promotion of these values, our school aims to ensure pupils:
At Mawnan you will experience these values throughout our everyday school life. Ofsted stated that “Pupils’ knowledge and understanding of democracy and tolerance is strongly promoted and taken very seriously.”
Democracy
Pupil voice is very strong at Mawnan. Our pupil elected school council plays a significant role in improving their school. They are elected by their class peers at the beginning of every year and are involved in making Mawnan an even better place to learn and play. Pupil surveys, questionnaires and interviews are also conducted throughout the year and this feedback forms a vital part of our school self-evaluation and improvement plan. By providing our pupils with an active and valued voice within their school we aim to provide them with an understanding of what democracy is, how it works and how they participate now and in the future.
Law
The learners at Mawnan will encounter rules and laws throughout their lives. We want our pupils to understand that whether these laws govern their class, their school, their neighbourhood or the country, they are set for good reasons and must be followed. Through PSHE lessons, our curriculum and collective worship we reinforce the importance of rules in ensuring fairness, safety, equality and happiness.
We regularly revisit our school rainbow rules as this helps the children to understand the reasons behind rules and the consequences if rules are broken. Through the mindful approach of our PSHE lessons, we provide plentiful opportunities to debate and discuss the reasons behind laws so children can recognise the importance of these for their own protection.
Individual Liberty
We create a positive culture at Mawnan, so our learners are in a safe environment where choices and freedoms are encouraged. We always encourage children to drive their own learning, challenge themselves, have a growth mindset and determine their own learning journey.
We offer a range of clubs which pupils have the freedom to choose from, based on their interests. Through our E-Safety, philosophy and pshe sessions, we educate children on their rights and personal freedoms as well as supporting them in recognising how to exercise these freedoms safely. At Mawnan we believe that valuing freedom and choice in daily school life will foster a value for individual liberty as the children embark upon their journey into adulthood.
Mutual Respect
Mutual respect is at the heart of our values. 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. The children know and understand that it is expected and imperative that respect is shown to everyone, whatever differences we may have and to everything, however big or small.
Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
Mawnan is situated in the Cornish countryside. We are a Church of England School and offer a culturally rich and diverse curriculum in which all major religions are learnt about and respected. We understand that trust and tolerance is gained through knowledge and understanding. We attempt to demonstrate tolerance and help children to become knowledgeable and understanding citizens through our curriculum and the routines of our daily school life. We hope these experiences will provide our pupils with the skills and dispositions to build a better Britain for the future.