Values for Life Assemblies

British Values Statement

The Government set out its definition of British Values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy and these values have been reiterated by the Prime Minister this year. The DfE has recently reinforced the need 'to create and enforce a clear and rigorous expectation on all schools to promote the fundamental British values.' These are:

Democracy
The rule of law
Individual liberty
Mutual respect
Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

At Our Lady of Peace Infant and Nursery School, we are committed to serving our community and local area. In so doing, we reinforce British values regularly and in the following ways:

Democracy:

Democratic values are an explicit part of the ethos at Our Lady of Peace. All adults listen to the views of the pupils and value their opinions. Pupils have further opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Council.

The Rule of Law:

The importance of laws and rules are consistently reinforced in the classroom, as well as through school assemblies. Pupils are taught to understand the need for laws - that they are there for individual protection, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Pupils follow a positive behaviour policy and clearly understand the rewards and sanctions that are used. Six golden rules are used throughout school. Assemblies and discussions in class focus on recognising right from wrong .For more information please see our positive behaviour policy.

Individual Liberty:

Pupils are encouraged to be independent learners, constantly making choices, within a safe and supportive environment. Developing their self -esteem and self-confidence is very important. Pupils are encouraged to understand their personal freedoms and are taught how to use these rights to best effect. All pupils are keen to support charities, whether local, national or global. They are taught consideration for others through our Religious Education curriculum and PSHE lessons in particular. E-safety teaching enables them to make choices in a safe manner.

Mutual Respect:

Our school’s ethos and behaviour policy are based on Gospel values, with the important commandment being, ‘Love one another as I have loved you’. Assemblies constantly promote respect for others and the importance of good manners. All pupils are taught the importance of self-respect, honest and open communication with others and fair play. Pupils work collaboratively and value others’ opinions.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs:

As a Catholic worshipping community, pupils are reminded of their place in a culturally diverse society. This is achieved through our Religious Education curriculum and the spiritual life of the school. Assemblies and class work promote the diversity of society and the right for each person to be respected and valued equally regardless of ability, gender, faith, heritage or race. Members of different faiths or religions are invited to school to share their knowledge and enhance learning within assemblies and in class.

We are looking at a range of different values such as:

Catholic Values
British Vales
Our Own Values

In October we are looking at the value of Respect!

In November we are looking at the value of Courage!

In December we are looking at the value of Hope!

In January we are looking at the value of Compassion!

In February we are looking at the value of Love!

In March we are looking at the value of Trust!

In April we are looking at the value of Respect!

In May we are looking at the value of Peace!

In June we are looking at the value of Service!

In July we are looking at the value of Friendship!