British Values

The Government set out their definition of British Values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy. The Department for Education have reinforced the 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'.

At Herringthorpe Junior School we value the diversity of backgrounds of all pupils, families and the wider school community.

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.

At Herringthorpe Junior School, we actively promote British Values by:

Democracy

• Herringthorpe pupils have active involvement in the selection processes of school council members, in some cases support the appointment of staff, and recognise that their voice is heard. 
• Our history curriculum provides opportunities for in-depth exploration of times throughout history when democracy and individual rights have been denied or restricted. 
• All children are encouraged to debate topics of interest, express their views and make a meaningful contribution to the running of the school on matters that directly involve pupils. Children also have the opportunity to have their voices heard through pupil questionnaires and Pupil Voice sessions.
• We foster democratic participation through class meetings, votes on playground games, and student involvement in leadership selections. Children through school vote on issues directly impacting them and their classroom activities. By practising debate,discussion, compromise, and representation, they gain firsthand experience with democratic processes.
• Our Behaviour policy involves rewards which the pupils have discussed and created.
• Additionally, our comprehensive PSHE program features a vertically aligned, spiralling curriculum exploring democratic concepts, through assemblies, lesson plans and special events. 
• With democracy reinforced through classroom learning and real-life application, we empower students to be informed and responsible in this fundamental British value.

Rule of Law

• At Herringthorpe Junior School, school rules and expectations are clear, fair and regularly promoted.
• Our clear behavioural expectations are established through a process that allows everyone to be heard. Students and staff alike participate in formulating school rules to ensure they are respected by all.
• When minor incidents occur, we respond through a restorative approach led by trained Restorative Practice representatives. Restorative circles provide a structured process where each party describes the situation from their perspective and all sides listen before resolution. Together they identify fair rules or sanctions when needed. This fosters accountability while strengthening relationships.
• Through modelling conflict resolution that is reasonable and consistent, we help pupils internalise why laws and social norms exist.
• Pupils are always supported to distinguish right from wrong, in the classroom, on the playground and when in the community.
• Pupils are encouraged to respect the law, understanding that it used to protect us and keep us safe.
• Pupils are taught about religious laws through Religious Education lessons.
• Our Behaviour and Anti-Bullying policies set out a zero tolerance baseline for any form of aggression, abuse or violence, which extends to pupils, staff, parents and carers.

Individual Liberty

• Within school, pupils are actively encouraged, and given the freedom to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment.
• Pupils are supported to develop their understanding that it is their responsibility to look after and care for the environment knowing that they are the change makers of tomorrow.
• Pupils are supported to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence.
• Pupils are encouraged to take responsibility for their behaviour and our pastoral support reinforces the importance of making the right choices.
• All pupils at Herringthorpe Junior School are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our e-safety teaching and Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) lessons.
• Vulnerable pupils are protected and stereotypes are challenged. A strong anti-bullying culture is embedded in the school and any form of bullying is challenged and addressed. The school also operates a robust system of logging incidents.
• Our diversity enables us to recognise, share and celebrate differences and pupils know that their characteristics make them who they are and this plays an intrinsic role in our ethos.
• Pupils have key roles and responsibilities in school e.g. School Council, Willow Tree Warriors, Restorative Practice Reps. They take pride in undertaking their role. 
• Through our Record of Achievement day, pupils are able to acknowledge the contribution which they bring to our school and how they support our vision, that ‘together, anything is possible’.

Mutual Respect and Tolerance of those with Different Faiths and Beliefs

• At Herringthorpe Junior School, our student body brings a rich diversity of backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs that serve as the foundation for mutual respect. We embrace each student’s uniqueness and create opportunities for pupils to share their lived experiences. In this way, children become the experts in educating their peers about respecting and honouring our diverse world.
• With support, students discuss how external differences may not reflect one’s inner character. Through our P4C and PSHE curriculum, we nurture a climate where asking thoughtful questions is imperative.
• We offer a culturally rich and diverse curriculum in which all major religions are studied and respected and global dimension work embedded in many of our Creative Curriculum topics and whole school enrichment days/weeks.
• Pupils know and understand that it is expected that respect is shown to everyone, adults and children.
• Pupils are supported in the understanding that we are all of equal value. 
• Pupils are helped to acquire an understanding of, and respect for, their own and other cultures and ways of life.
• Staff actively challenge and equip pupils to stand up to prejudicial language or acts.
• Links and visits are promoted with local faith communities and places of worship, supporting their cultural capital. 
• Through the PSHE and RE curriculums, pupils are encouraged to discuss and respect differences between people, such as differences of faith, ethnicity, disability, gender or sexuality and differences of family situations.
• Collective Worship and discussions involving prejudices and prejudice-based bullying have been followed and supported by learning within the curriculum.

Radicalisation and Extremism

All staff know that they must be aware of any signs of radical or extremist views, as outlined in the ‘Prevent’ agenda. All adults, including Governors, are vigilant and know to report any concerns about views/behaviours expressed by a child or anyone connected to a child to the Designated Leaders for safeguarding.