Here at the SPRS we recognise the multi-cultural, multi faith and ever-changing nature of the United Kingdom. We also understand the vital role we play in ensuring that groups or individuals within the school are not subjected to intimidation or radicalisation by those wishing to unduly, or illegally, influence them.
We follow equal opportunities guidance which guarantees that there will be no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar. The SPRS is dedicated to preparing pupils for their life beyond formal education and ensuring that we promote and reinforce British values to all of our pupils.
The Government emphasises that schools are required to ensure that key ‘British Values’ are taught in all UK schools. The government set out its definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy.
The five British Values are:
o Democracy
o The rule of law
o Individual liberty
o Mutual respect
o Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
The SPRS uses strategies within the National curriculum and beyond to secure such outcomes for students. The examples that follow show some of the many ways we seek to embed British values.
Democracy
The principle of democracy is consistently being reinforced at SPRS with democratic processes being used for important decisions within the school community, for instance, we have Pupil Voice, a session that is held regularly with the Inclusion service being an advocate for pupil views. The principle of democracy is also explored throughout the curriculum as well as during assemblies.
The Rule of Law
The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced. Pupils are taught the rules and expectations of the school which are highlighted by the class charters, our positive behaviour system and pupil expectations. Pupils are taught the value and the reasons behind laws that govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Police and Fire Service as well as whole school activities enforce the negative consequences of crime.
Individual Liberty
Pupils are actively encouraged to make independent choices, with the knowledge that they are in a safe, secure and supportive environment. Staff at our school educate and provide boundaries for pupils to make informed choices as well as discussing the positive and negative consequences of taking personal risks.
Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised on how to exercise these safely, for example through e-safety and anti-bullying work.
SPRS has a robust anti-bullying culture and has in place comprehensive Behaviour Policy and Guidelines alongside our Anti Bullying Charter.
Mutual Respect
Respect is a strong component of SPRS and is embedded into our Ethos & Values. Our restorative approach ensures that pupils learn that their behaviours influence their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community are encouraged to treat each other with respect, and this is reiterated through our teaching and learning environment.
Mutual respect is embraced throughout the curriculum by providing the opportunity for our pupils to express their views in a safe environment.
Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
This is achieved though equipping children with the ability to understand their place in a culturally diverse society by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity within the school community. Pupils also benefit from drop-down days around other cultures. Additionally, pupils are actively encouraged to share their faith and beliefs within the school and celebrate festivities throughout the calendar year. The Religious Education curriculum, which is compulsory for all pupils, provides a broad and balanced education on a range of faiths, religions and cultures.
SPRS strives endlessly to ensure that its pupils leave for the next stage of their education with the strongest foundation of values upon which to build a successful life and a successful contribution to our society.