British Values

It is clear that as a Christian country, Gospel Values underpin the values of the British Society in which we live:

· Democracy

· The rule of law

· Individual liberty

· Mutual respect

· Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

Examples of the actions we take to promote British Values at St Mary’s include:

Democracy

· Having an elected School Council

· Highlighting the importance of democratic ideas in history lessons

· Ensuring all pupils are listened to by adults

· Visiting the Houses of Parliament

· Visits from local member of Parliament

· Taking part in Student Voice

The Rule of Law

· Creating “class rules”

· Having a clear behaviour policy that is explained to all

· Highlighting the rules of the Church and God in the RE curriculum, for example the 10 commandments and the Precepts of the Church

· Through RE and history teaching about the development of the Rule of Law in English law, a legal system inspired by Christian values and a major influence across the world

Individual Liberty

· Encourage pupils to be independent in their learning

· Provide children with opportunities for reflection as they take responsibility for discerning their vocation

Mutual Respect

· Having a Mission Statement that is inclusive

· Constantly promoting respect for others as good manners

· Reinforcing the value of everyone’s opinion in class discussions

· Having an effective anti-bullying policy

· Emphasising in RE and PSHE lessons that every person is unique and created in the image of God

· Supporting charitable works

Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs

· RE lessons provide pupils with a deep understanding of their own faith as well as awareness of the faith and tradition of other religious communities as a basis for understanding and respecting them

· Using the witness of Jesus as an example of tolerance in stories such as the Good Samaritan and the Women at the well.