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British Values

At Witherley CE Primary School, we are committed to promoting the fundamental British values as outlined by the Department for Education. These values are:

  • Democracy
  • The Rule of Law
  • Individual Liberty
  • Mutual Respect
  • Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs

The Department for Education states 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.”

These values are defined as:

  • Respect for democracy and participation in the democratic process
  • Respect for the basis on which the law is made and applies in England
  • Support for equality of opportunity for all
  • Support and respect for the liberties of all within the law
  • Respect for and tolerance of different faiths, religions, and beliefs

Our Aims

At Witherley, British values are woven into the fabric of our school life, alongside our core Christian values of Respect, Friendship, Perseverance, and Trust. We aim to nurture children to become safe, caring, responsible, and tolerant individuals who contribute positively to British society and the wider world.

We encourage creativity, independence, open-mindedness, and respect for self and others—within our school, our community, and beyond.


How We Promote British Values

Democracy

  • Pupils are encouraged to express their views, debate topics, and contribute meaningfully to school life.
  • Democratic principles are explored through the curriculum.

Rule of Law

  • Pupils help create class and school rules, which are clear, fair, and consistently reinforced.
  • Children learn to distinguish right from wrong in all aspects of school life.
  • Visits from the Police, Fire and Ambulance Service reinforce the importance of law and safety.
  • Our Behaviour and Anti-Bullying policies set clear expectations and consequences.

Individual Liberty

  • Pupils are given freedom to make choices in a safe and supportive environment.
  • We promote self-confidence, self-esteem, and personal responsibility.
  • Pupils learn about their rights and freedoms, including how to exercise them safely through PSHE and e-safety lessons.
  • We challenge stereotypes and protect vulnerable pupils through a strong anti-bullying culture.

Mutual Respect and Tolerance

  • Respect is a core Christian value at Witherley.
  • Pupils learn to understand and appreciate different cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles.
  • Staff and pupils challenge prejudice and discrimination.
  • We foster links with local faith communities and places of worship.
  • Through RE and PSHE, pupils explore differences in faith, ethnicity, gender, family structure, and more.
  • Our curriculum is culturally rich and diverse, with global themes that encourage reflection on both Christian and British values.