British Values
The Department for Education identifies five core elements of British values:
- Democracy
- The rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Mutual respect
- Tolerance of different faiths and beliefs
At Edinburgh Primary School, promoting British values and ethos is central to our educational philosophy and community involvement. These values significantly shape our teaching methods and broader school culture.
Promoting British Values at Edinburgh Primary School
Being Part of Britain
At Edinburgh, we embrace and celebrate our diverse heritage while valuing our British identity. We observe British traditions and customs throughout the year, such as the Harvest Festival in the Autumn term and the Nativity play at Christmas.
Students also learn about Britain from various perspectives, particularly through geographical and historical contexts.
Democracy
Every member of our school community, including children, parents, and staff, are encouraged to voice their opinions.
A key example is our School Council, which mirrors the British electoral system. Comprising representatives from years 1-6, the council meets regularly to discuss class and school issues.
Other examples of fostering a ‘pupil voice’ include:
- Students agreeing to and respecting school rules, with discussions about their significance.
- Encouraging students to reflect on their learning during the marking process.
- Ensuring students are listened to by adults and taught to listen to each other, fostering respect for individual opinions.
We also maintain an open-door policy and conduct staff and parent surveys, allowing them to express their views.
Rules and Laws
The importance of rules and laws is frequently emphasised in assemblies and during behaviour reflections. We have a set of school-wide rules, taught from reception through to year six:
- Be kind and friendly
- Listen to each other
- Walk carefully in and around school
- Respect other people’s property
- Think before you act
Students learn to value these rules, understanding that they create a safe, stimulating learning environment. They also learn about the consequences of not following these rules. Positive reinforcement and mature discussions further support this learning.
These values are reinforced through various means:
- Visits from authorities such as the police
- Religious Education lessons and visits that explore rules of different faiths
- Other subjects, such as PE and extra curricular sport, where different rules are respected
We aim to instil an understanding of the importance of the rule of law, beneficial both in school and future adult life.
Individual Liberty
We encourage students' freedom of choice and their right to express views and beliefs respectfully through a rights respecting school approach. Within a safe, supportive environment, we set boundaries that allow for safe decision-making. A variety of clubs are available, allowing students to choose based on their interests. We believe that fostering choice and freedom in school life will instil a deep value for individual liberty in their future lives.
Mutual Respect and Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs
Mutual respect and a strong sense of community are at the core of our school ethos. We offer a culturally rich curriculum that respects and studies all major religions. We believe that tolerance stems from knowledge and understanding. Through our curriculum and daily routines, we aim to cultivate tolerance and help students become informed, understanding citizens capable of building a better future for Britain.
Positive choices are supported through our ‘Good to Be Green’ behaviour system, our school values, house points and celebration assemblies.