Promoting Fundamental British Values

In accordance with The Department for Education we aim to actively promote British values in schools to ensure young people leave school prepared for life in modern Britain. Pupils are encouraged to regard people of all faiths, races and cultures with respect and tolerance and understand that while different people may hold different views about what is ‘right’ and ‘wrong’, all people living in England are subject to its law.

The Key Values and ways these are promoted at St Matthew's are:

• Democracy

  • School council elections where pupils nominate themselves and vote using ballots.

  • Class voting on decisions such as choosing topics, books, or rewards.

  • Pupil voice surveys that let children share ideas about school life.

  • Inviting local councillors or MPs to speak about their roles.

• Rule of law

  • Creating classroom rules together so children understand why rules matter.

  • Behaviour policies consistently applied by staff.

  • Visits from police or community safety officers to discuss laws and responsibilities.

  • Using stories and assemblies to explore right and wrong.

• Individual liberty

  • Encouraging children to make safe choices, such as in learning activities or clubs.

  • Teaching online safety and helping pupils understand personal boundaries.

  • Providing a range of extra-curricular activities so pupils can pursue interests.

  • Celebrating personal achievements and promoting confidence and self-expression.

• Mutual respect

  • A strong focus on positive relationships in a small school community.

  • Whole-school buddy systems, e.g., older pupils helping younger ones.

  • Encouraging teamwork in lessons, PE, and group projects.

  • Staff modelling respectful behaviour at all times.

• Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs 

  • Learning about different religions through RE lessons and themed days/weeks.

  • Celebrating cultural festivals. 

  • Inviting visitors from various faith communities or organising visits to places of worship.

  • Using books, stories, and assemblies that promote understanding of diversity.