British Values

The DfE have recently 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 definition of British values in the 2011 ‘Prevent Strategy’, and these values have been reiterated by the Prime Minister in 2014 and added to Ofsted inspection guidance in July 2014.

Promoting British Values

We are an inclusive setting and our ethos, activities and services enable children to be independent learners, to make choices and to build strong relationships with their peers and all adults. Our setting believes that children flourish best when their personal, social and emotional needs are met and where there are clear and developmentally appropriate expectations for their behaviour. We would challenge pupils, staff or parents who expressed opinions contrary to fundamental British values.

Democracy

We respect, listen to and act on children’s and parent’s voice. Children are involved in making class rules and they are expected to contribute and cooperate with them, taking into account the views of others.

The Rule of Law

We consistently reinforce our high expectations of children and their families. Children are taught the value and reasons behind our expectations that they are there to protect us, that everyone has a responsibility and that there are consequences when rules are broken. We use positive strategies to handle any conflict and praise and acknowledge desirable behaviours.

Individual Liberty

Creswick Pre-School actively encourages children and their families to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. We educate and provide boundaries for young children to make choices, to manage risks, through our provision of a safe environment and empowering adult support. Children are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are given opportunities to resolve conflicts effectively.

Mutual Respect

Creswick Pre-School values all of our children and families. We celebrate our rich cultural and religious diversity and promote mutual respect. Children are modelled respect through caring, sharing and listening to others. Adults help children to understand how actions and words affect others. All children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities are valued for their individuality and supported to achieve their best. Children are taught that life is not the same for everyone and we support charities such as ‘Red Nose Day’, ‘Children in Need’.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

We aim to enhance 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 and try different foods from other cultures and we encourage parents/carers to participate and support our multi-cultural events. We ensure that posters, displays, messages of welcome reflect the wide range of languages and cultures that we are fortunate to have in our setting. At Creswick Pre-School, embedded in everything we do, is our determination to develop skills of empathy and tolerance to make everyone feel valued and respected.