British Values

Promoting British Values at Willow Nursery School

The DfE 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’

The government set out its deinfition of British Values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy, and these values have been reiterated by the Prime Minister in 2015. At Willow Nursery School, we enforce these values in the following ways:

Democracy:

We listen to children’s and parents voice. Parent questionnaires are completed every year. Children are also asked what they like about school and how it could be made even better. Children are given opportunities to make decsions such as choosing stories to be read to the group. They also have a very big part to play in planning for and making decisions on the activities, food and celebrations to have on our schools ‘Special Day’

The Rule of Law:

We reinforce and have high expectations of the chidren in our care. Children are made aware of and take part in the construction of the school rules. These are displayed for the children to see at all times. Children are helped to understand the reasoning behind these rules, that they are there to protect us, and that there are consequences when rules are not followed.

Individual Liberty:

Within the nursery school, children are encouraged to make choices in a safe and supportive environment. We educate children and provide the boundaries to help them to make choices safely . This is through our safe, enabling, environment and through our effective teaching. Children are encouraged to know and understand their rights.

Mutual Respect:

Part of our behaviour policy is based on respect. Our behaviour policy aims to promote:

·         Feelings of safety and happiness

·         High standards of self-discipline

·         High self-esteem and feeling valued

·         Care and kindness towards others

·         Respect for their environment

·         Respect for themselves and others

·         Understanding of the rules within the school

·         Listening and responding appropriately to instructions

·         The resolution of conflict by the children themselves with adult support when necessary

·         Begin to develop the ability to manage their emotions

Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs:

We aim to enhance the children’s understanding of different faiths and beliefs by participating in a range of celebrations throughout the year. Children have the opportunity to dress up in clothes from other cultures, try food from other cultures and we encourage parents to participate and support with this.

To look at our British Values Policy please see our policy section on the website.