British Values

What do ‘British values’ mean?

At our school, we are committed to inspiring learning and building community so that every child feels valued, respected and that they truly belong.

In line with guidance from the Department for Education, we actively promote Fundamental British Values through all aspects of school life. These values help our pupils to develop confidence, responsibility and respect for others, preparing them for life in modern Britain.

The Fundamental British Values are:

• Democracy – pupils are encouraged to share their views, take part in decision-making and understand that every voice matters
• The rule of law – children learn the importance of rules, fairness and responsibility in school and in wider society
• Individual liberty – pupils are supported to make safe choices, express themselves and develop independence
• Mutual respect – we promote kindness, empathy and consideration for others in everything we do
• Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs, and for those without faith – we celebrate diversity and encourage understanding so that everyone feels accepted

By embedding these values into our curriculum, assemblies, relationships and daily routines, we create a welcoming environment where all children feel secure, confident and proud to be part of our school community.

The Department for Education places a duty on early years providers, schools, colleges and training providers to prepare pupils for life in modern Britain by developing their understanding of Fundamental British Values. Schools in England are required to actively promote these values through teaching, learning and enrichment opportunities.

At Cawston Grange Primary School, we are committed to creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment where every child feels respected, supported and able to thrive. We actively promote Fundamental British Values by encouraging thoughtful discussion, celebrating difference and guiding pupils to make positive choices. Where opinions or behaviours do not reflect our shared values, we address these in a calm, supportive and educational way, helping children to learn, grow and develop understanding.

Through this approach, our pupils learn the importance of kindness, fairness and responsibility, and leave our school confident, compassionate and well prepared for life in modern Britain.

Our staff uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and care, both within and beyond the school community. They model the values we expect of our pupils and work together to build a culture of trust, respect and belonging.

Examples of how we teach and promote Fundamental British Values at Cawston Grange Primary School are outlined below.

Democracy:

Democracy is an important part of daily life at Cawston Grange Primary School. We encourage all pupils to share their ideas, express their opinions and take an active role in shaping their school community, so that every child feels valued and that they belong.

Our Junior Leadership Team is elected by classmates, giving pupils first-hand experience of democratic processes and showing them that their voices can lead to positive change. Team members represent the views of their peers and work with staff to help improve school life for everyone.

Across the curriculum, particularly in subjects such as religious education, history and English, children are encouraged to explore different viewpoints, discuss important issues and communicate their thoughts with confidence and respect. Through thoughtful discussion and collaborative learning, pupils learn that listening to others is just as important as sharing their own ideas.

Through relationship and personal development education, pupils are taught that everyone has the right to be heard and the responsibility to listen. They learn how to express opinions respectfully, make shared decisions, resolve differences fairly and understand personal boundaries. This helps children to experience democracy in everyday situations and understand how fairness, equality and cooperation support strong, inclusive communities.

By embedding democratic values throughout school life, we help our pupils to become confident, responsible and respectful citizens who are well prepared for life in modern Britain.

The Rule of Law:

The rule of law is promoted throughout life at Cawston Grange Primary School, helping pupils to understand the importance of rules, responsibility and fairness in creating a safe and supportive community where everyone can thrive.

Children learn about the role of law and public services through regular visits from professionals such as the fire service and the police. These experiences help pupils to understand how laws protect individuals and communities and why they are important in everyday life.

Within school, pupils are actively involved in developing and understanding expectations. During transition periods and at the start of each term, children discuss and agree class rules together, encouraging a shared sense of responsibility and ownership. School rules and our behaviour policy are consistently promoted by all staff, and pupils’ views have contributed to their development alongside the Senior Leadership Team. This ensures that expectations are clear, fair and understood by all.

Online safety and responsible digital behaviour are taught through the computing curriculum and wider school activities. Pupils learn about internet law, privacy and personal safety, while parents are supported through workshops and guidance. Appropriate systems and safeguards are in place to protect children and staff and to promote safe use of technology.

Pupils are also supported to understand wider aspects of personal and community safety, including road safety and age-appropriate learning about drugs and substances in upper key stage 2. These opportunities help children to make informed, responsible choices and understand the consequences of their actions.

Our core school values of Excellence, Respect and Friendship underpin all aspects of school life. By living out these values each day, children and staff work together to create a calm, orderly and caring environment where rules are respected and everyone feels safe, valued and supported.

Individual Liberty:

At Cawston Grange Primary School, we nurture individual liberty by empowering pupils to develop confidence, independence and a strong sense of self. We want every child to feel safe to be themselves, to make positive choices and to take pride in who they are and what they can achieve.

Through our carefully constructed personal development offer, we support children in developing self-awareness, resilience and emotional wellbeing. Pupils are encouraged to reflect on their strengths, recognise their potential and build the confidence to advocate for their own opinions, hopes and dreams. They learn that their voice matters and that they have the right to be heard, respected and supported.

Children are encouraged to take increasing responsibility for their learning by setting goals, reflecting on their progress and making informed choices about how they approach their work. Through well-planned opportunities across the curriculum, pupils develop problem-solving skills, perseverance and creativity, helping them to become motivated and independent learners.

We recognise and celebrate pupils’ efforts, attitudes and achievements in meaningful ways, helping children to develop self-belief and a positive mindset. Opportunities such as class-led assemblies, presentations and performances allow pupils to share their ideas, explore important themes and take pride in their contributions.

A strong culture of kindness and respect underpins our approach to wellbeing and behaviour. Anti-bullying is embedded within school life through education, open discussion and consistent support, ensuring that all pupils feel safe, listened to and protected.

We actively promote equality and challenge stereotypes through our curriculum and wider school life. Children are encouraged to explore a wide range of interests and talents, free from limiting expectations, and to respect and celebrate the individuality of others.

Mutual Respect and Tolerance of those with different faiths:

At Cawston Grange Primary School, mutual respect and tolerance sit at the heart of our commitment to building community. We are proud to be a welcoming and inclusive school that brings together children and families from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures, faiths and geographical areas. This diversity is celebrated as a strength and enriches daily life for everyone.

Through carefully planned learning experiences, pupils are encouraged to work collaboratively, learn from one another and appreciate different perspectives. Working in mixed groups helps children to develop empathy, cooperation and respect, while recognising and valuing each other’s strengths.

Our curriculum provides many opportunities for pupils to explore and celebrate different faiths, cultures and traditions. Through religious education, themed learning experiences and creative projects in art and music, children develop curiosity, understanding and appreciation of the wider world. They are encouraged to ask thoughtful questions, reflect on their own beliefs and respect the beliefs and choices of others.

Learning is further enriched through a wide range of visits and visitors throughout the school year. These experiences broaden pupils’ horizons, deepen understanding and help them make meaningful connections between classroom learning and real life. By engaging with people and places beyond their immediate community, children develop openness, confidence and respect for diversity.

By embedding mutual respect and tolerance into every aspect of school life, we create a caring, inclusive environment where all children feel welcomed, valued and supported. This strong sense of belonging helps our pupils to grow into thoughtful, compassionate and responsible members of society.