British Values

The government set out their definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy. These were reinforced in September 2014 due to recent events. These new regulations will sit alongside the requirements of the Equalities Act, which also applies to all types of schools.

Schools will be expected to focus on, and be able to show, how our work with pupils is effective in embedding fundamental British values.

At Gilberdyke Primary School we promote the core British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance towards those of other faiths.

These values are central to the school’s ethos and can be seen throughout the school’s life. Some examples of core British values at our school are outlined below.

  • Provide pupils with a broad general knowledge of, and promote respect for, public institutions and services
  • Teach pupils how they can influence decision-making through the democratic process
  • Include in the curriculum information on the advantages and disadvantages of democracy and how it works in Britain.
  • Encourage pupils to become involved in decision–making processes and ensure they are listened to in school.
  • Hold ‘mock elections’ so pupils learn how to argue and defend points of view
  • Help pupils to express their views.
  • Teach pupils how public services operate and how they are held to account.
  • Model how perceived injustice can be peacefully challenged.
  • Provide pupils with a broad general knowledge of, and promote respect for, public institutions and services
  • Teach pupils how they can influence decision-making through the democratic process
  • Include in the curriculum information on the advantages and disadvantages of democracy and how it works in Britain.
  • Encourage pupils to become involved in decision–making processes and ensure they are listened to in school.
  • Hold ‘mock elections’ so pupils learn how to argue and defend points of view
  • Help pupils to express their views.
  • Teach pupils how public services operate and how they are held to account.
  • Model how perceived injustice can be peacefully challenged.
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  • Ensure school rules and expectations are clear and fair.
  • Help pupils to distinguish right from wrong.
  • Help pupils to respect the law and the basis on which it is made.
  • Help pupils to understand that living under the rule of law protects individuals.
  • Include visits from the police in the curriculum.
  • Teach pupils aspects of both civil and criminal law and discuss how this might differ from some religious laws
  • Develop restorative justice approaches to resolve conflicts.
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  • Support pupils to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence.
  • Encourage pupils to take responsibility for their behaviour, as well as knowing their rights.
  • Model freedom of speech through pupil participation, while ensuring protection of vulnerable pupils and promoting critical analysis of evidence.
  • Challenging stereotypes
  • Implement a strong anti-bullying culture.
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  • Promote respect for individual differences
  • Help pupils to acquire an understanding of, and respect for, their own and other cultures and ways of life.
  • Challenge prejudicial or discriminatory behaviour.
  • Organise visits to places of worship.
  • Develop links with faith communities.
  • Develop critical personal thinking skills.
  • Discuss differences of family situations, such as looked-after children or young carers.
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‘I’ve really valued the amount of respect I’ve been shown. I know that I’m never alone. I can talk to anyone.’

Quotes from Year 6 pupils

‘The children are happy because of the amount of effort teachers put into wellbeing.’

Quotes from parents

‘It is a welcoming school that puts children first.’

Quotes from parents

‘I came from another school and I’ve met loads of new friends. This school is about friendship, respect and we always follow the expectations, it works well.’

Quotes from Year 6 pupils

‘I’m going to miss having fun lessons. Gilberdyke has taught me simple manners and respect and how much that is needed and necessary in life.’

Quotes from Year 6 pupils

‘Responsibility is key to having a good career, this school has taught me that.’

Quotes from Year 6 pupils

‘Gilberdyke is a kind and respectful school with trusted people to talk to. Everyone gets along with each other because of the values about respect, responsibility and resilience.’

Quotes from Year 6 pupils

‘Gilberdyke is about respect and responsibility. I’ve learnt a LOT about that whilst I’ve been here and we need to. We try our hardest in everything and never give up!’

Quotes from Year 6 pupils

‘The staff are kind, even when they’re tired, they keep going because we are resilient!’

Quotes from Year 6 pupils

‘Gilberdyke is a place where everyone feels welcome because we are respectful of each other and friendly.’

Quotes from Year 6 pupils

‘There are loads of things to do here, it’s fun in lessons and loads of other people to make friends with.’

Quotes from Year 6 pupils

‘This school is a safe, educating, welcoming, accepting and all round brilliant school.’

Quotes from pupils

‘The values the school has shine through the students.’

Quotes from parents

‘All staff greet with a smile and are approachable and always there to listen.’

Quotes from parents

‘This school is an environment where everyone has a voice.’

Quotes from pupils

‘The best thing about Gilberdyke is that we accept everyone for who they are – that’s the thing I’ll miss most.’

Quotes from Year 6 pupils

‘Children are given the confidence to grow and learn.’

Quotes from parents