British values

In line with statutory expectations, Wellington Primary School has an obligation to teach our children about British values. The government defines British values as: democracy; the rule of law; individual liberty; mutual respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs.

At Wellington Primary School, these values are explored regularly in the following ways:

Democracy
In the first PSHE topic in the Autumn term and throughout year the children discuss the rules, their rights and the learning charter for their classroom. The contents of the learning charter is key to the school’s behaviour policy. Children have many other opportunities for their voices to be heard. Our school council involves every child in Years 1 to 6 and meets regularly to discuss issues and suggest and make improvements. Children regularly complete questionnaires in which they are able to put forward their views about the school.

The Rule of Law
The importance of Laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout regular school days, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through school assemblies. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws, especially those which directly impact on children, that they 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 help reinforce this message.

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 safely, through provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our E-Safety and PSHE lessons. Whether it be through choice of learning challenge, of how they record, of participation in our numerous extra-curricular clubs and opportunities, pupils are given the freedom to make choices.

Mutual Respect and Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
Children learn that their behaviours affect their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community are expected to treat each other with respect. Assemblies and RE lessons are regularly planned to include stories and celebrations from a variety of faiths and cultures. Members of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes and the school.