St Mark’s Church of England Primary School

British Values

At St Mark’s C of E Primary School we value the diversity of all pupils and promote the need to understand the perspectives of other people and other cultures. Through our Christian Values of Peace, Trust and Fellowship we develop in our pupils and staff the qualities that make us, not only good learners, but valuable and respectful members of British Society.

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 further defines British Values as:

  • Respect for democracy and the democratic process
  • Respect for the basis on which the law is made and applies in England
  • Support for equality for all
  • Support and respect for the liberties of all within the law
  • Respect for different faiths, religions and beliefs

Our belief that our Christian Values help to develop our children as strong and thoughtful members of our school community provides the values system for children to grow into positive members of British Society.

Fellowship

  • Respect is promoted through the idea that, despite our differences, we are working towards many common goals.
  • Through the RE, PSHE, Topic and Literacy curriculum pupils are taught to respect the differences between people.
  • The success of individuals is celebrated as success for the whole school.
  • Everyone at St Marks is encouraged to challenge discriminatory behaviour.

Trust

  • Children regularly have an opportunity to debate, through their school council, topics that have meaning for them and on matters that relate directly to their school life.
  • Surveys, questionnaires and interviews allow pupil voice to be heard and contributions to be made.
  • The Curriculum and Worship schemes of work allow for the opportunity to explore the themes of Trust and Democracy.
  • Key roles and responsibilities are given to pupils throughout the school.
  • Rules and expectations are clear and decided upon together. Across the school there is a consistent approach to the expectations of behaviour.

Peace

  • Pupils are encouraged to develop self-belief and self esteem.
  • Making the correct decisions and thinking through actions and potential consequences are encouraged as classes explore the idea of Peace as focus and clear thinking while life carries on around you.
  • The ability to have an open mind, reflect upon learning and concentrate on tasks helps to create good learners. It also gives the children time to reflect upon their position in school and role in a wider community.
  • Pupils are asked to consider how they help develop a Peaceful learning environment for others where everyone has the opportunity and responsibility to consider actions, consequences and correct decisions.