Promoting fundamental British values – Spiritual Mural Social & Cultural Learning

At Boringdon Primary School, we actively promote the fundamental British Values of:

• democracy
• the rule of law
• individual liberty
• mutual respect
• tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs

These values are an important part of preparing our children for life in modern Britain. They help pupils understand their rights and responsibilities, respect the views and beliefs of others, challenge discrimination and make a positive contribution to their community.

British Values are woven through our school ethos, relationships, curriculum and daily routines. They are explored explicitly through assemblies and are reinforced through lessons by making meaningful connections with content already being taught. Subjects including religious education, personal, social, health and economic education, history and English provide regular opportunities for pupils to consider democracy, fairness, freedom, laws, different beliefs and respectful relationships.

Our Team Boringdon Character Curriculum strengthens this work through planned lessons, assemblies, pupil leadership, service and wider school experiences. It helps pupils develop and demonstrate our school values of belonging, kindness, respect, responsibility, resilience and excellence. This ensures that British Values are not treated as a separate topic, but are understood and applied through pupils’ learning, choices, relationships and participation in school life. This approach aligns with the school’s current development plan for a structured programme of lessons, assemblies, leadership opportunities, service and wider experiences.

Children learn about democracy through opportunities to express their views, listen to others and participate in decision-making. They understand the rule of law through clear expectations, routines and discussions about rights and responsibilities. Individual liberty is promoted by teaching children to make informed and safe choices. Mutual respect and tolerance are developed by learning about different cultures, faiths, beliefs and ways of life.

Through this connected approach, we aim to develop knowledgeable, respectful and responsible young people who value diversity and are well-prepared to participate positively in modern Britain.

The Department for Education identifies the fundamental British Values as democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. Its guidance also explains that schools can promote these values through their ethos, relationships, teaching, collective worship and activities beyond the classroom.

Read the Department for Education guidance on promoting fundamental British Values through SMSC