British Values

At St Peter’s CE Academy, we actively promote British Values, through our school vision, ethos, curriculum, and teaching. Our approach ensures that pupils develop tolerance and respect for people of all faiths (or those of no faith), cultures, and lifestyles. We aim to prepare children and young people positively for life in modern Britain through our words, actions, and influence within the school and wider community.

The government defines British Values as:

• Democracy
• Rule of Law
• Individual Liberty
• Mutual Respect
• Tolerance of Those with Different Faiths and Beliefs

At St Peter’s CE Academy, we value the diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds of all pupils and families. Through a range of activities and lessons, we celebrate this diversity, helping children develop tolerance and respect for differences within our school community and the wider world. These principles are underpinned by our Christian values and are embedded throughout our curriculum.

We actively challenge opinions or behaviours that conflict with fundamental British Values, including extremist views.

How We Promote British Values

• Democracy: We have an elected Local Governing Bodyl where pupils' voices are heard, and they contribute their views through meetings and discussions.
• Rule of Law: Pupils are taught the importance of laws—how they govern and protect us, the responsibilities they entail, and the consequences of breaking them. Visits from authorities such as the Police and Fire Service reinforce this message.
• Individual Liberty: Pupils are supported to make informed choices and exercise their rights and personal freedoms safely, such as through our online safety lessons.
• Mutual Respect: Our positive behaviour policy encourages tolerance and respect. We embed these values across school life, fostering an environment where pupils treat each other with kindness and consideration.
• Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs: We provide opportunities for pupils to visit places of worship and welcome visitors from various faiths. Our local vicars also leads worship regularly.

British Values in the Curriculum

• English: Through literature, poetry, and discussion, pupils explore themes of tolerance, respect, and democracy.
• Religious Education: Lessons reinforce messages of diversity, respect, and understanding by exploring different faiths and cultures.
• History and Geography: Pupils study key historical events where British Values have been tested, such as both World Wars. They also explore global cultures, economies, and ways of life.
• Assemblies: Weekly whole-school, class, and phase assemblies focus on key values, current events, and relevant social issues.
• PSHE: We follow the Coram PSHE scheme, which embeds British Values into lessons that promote personal development and responsible citizenship.
• Enrichment: Through educational visits, guest speakers, and real-world experiences, pupils gain a deeper understanding of society and their role within it.

At St Peter’s CE Academy, our goal is to ensure that all pupils understand and actively participate in democracy, distinguish between right and wrong, appreciate the rule of law, know their rights and responsibilities, and show respect and tolerance towards others. By integrating these values across all aspects of school life, we help prepare our pupils to be responsible and engaged citizens in modern Britain.