British Values and SMSC

Democracy

• An understanding as to how citizens can influence decision-making through the democratic process

• An understanding that participation in elections by those opposed to democracy should be allowed by law but the success of such candidates is undesirable for the well-being of society if it would lead to the end of democracy

Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our class and School Council and pupil questionnaires. Children in each class vote for the children they want on the School Council.   Children raise topics for discussion and consideration. Children are consulted and contribute to the development of the school, they have the opportunity to make democratic class decisions. All children were involved in choosing and voting for our school values.

 Children take part in agreeing class rules and sign an agreement to following these rules. The school has a list of Golden Rules for all the children.

The rule of law 

• An understanding that bodies such as police and the army can be held to account by the people, through the democratic organs of government

Rules are there to protect individuals and hold them to account. The importance of Laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school or the country are reinforced throughout regular school days, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through collective acts of worship. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws that govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. There are occasional visits from the police to speak to the children.

Individual liberty

Within school pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make choices, through provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advise how to exercise these safely, for example through our E-Safety, Philosophy for children and PSCHE lessons.

Mutual Respect and Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

• An understanding that the freedom to hold other faiths and beliefs is protected in law and an acceptance that other people having different faiths or beliefs to oneself (or having none) should not be the cause of prejudicial or discriminatory behaviour

At Coton C of E (VC) Primary School our ethos is based around our values of compassion, creativity, co-operation, courage and challenge. Adults in school provide role models for these values. Reading partners and sports leaders are there to support children and help during break times.

The Cambridge Equality Pledge echoes our aspiration

We believe in the dignity of all people and their right to respect and equality of opportunity. We value the strength that comes with difference and the positive contribution that diversity brings to our community. Our aspiration is for Cambridge and the wider region to be safe, welcoming and inclusive".

 A value that is consistently reinforced through school life is respect.

Coton C of E (VC) Primary School is a diverse primary school where diverse faiths and beliefs of all families are valued and accepted.

Acceptance of different faiths and beliefs is achieved through enhancing pupils understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity, for example through a variety of themes of collective worship, PSCHE, Philosophy for children, RE curriculum. We use opportunities within our teaching to learn about different countries and their cultures.