At Thwaites School, we prepare pupils for life in modern Britain and help them become safe, caring, responsible and respectful members of society. We encourage children to be confident, creative and open-minded individuals who respect themselves and others and who make a positive contribution to our school, our local community and the wider world.

We actively promote the fundamental British values through our curriculum, assemblies and wider school life. This work supports pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and complements our own school values of kindness, engagement, collaboration and resilience.

We are committed to equality and inclusion. We teach children to value difference, challenge discrimination and show respect for people of all backgrounds, cultures, faiths and beliefs, including those who do not hold a religious belief.

The fundamental British values are:

• Democracy

• The rule of law

• Individual liberty

• Mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs

The examples below demonstrate some of the ways in which these values are promoted at Thwaites School.

Democracy

Pupils are encouraged to express their views and understand that their opinions matter. Democratic processes are used when appropriate, including the election of representatives to our School Council.

Through pupil voice, class discussions, assemblies and curriculum subjects, children learn how decisions can be made collectively. They are taught to listen respectfully to different viewpoints and understand how citizens can influence decision-making through democratic processes.

The Rule of Law

Children are taught why rules and laws are important and how they help to keep people safe, protect individual rights and support a fair society.

Our school rules and expectations are regularly discussed and reinforced. Pupils learn that choices have consequences and that everyone has responsibilities towards others. They are supported in distinguishing right from wrong and in understanding the importance of fairness and justice.

Where appropriate, visits from organisations such as the police and fire and rescue service help pupils understand how laws and public services protect individuals and communities. Our Behaviour Policy explains the school’s expectations and approach to behaviour.

Individual Liberty

Within a safe, supportive environment, pupils are encouraged to make informed choices and take increasing responsibility for their learning and behaviour.

Children learn about their rights, responsibilities and personal freedoms, as well as how to exercise these safely and respectfully. Through PSHE, computing and online-safety education, they are taught how to assess risk, make appropriate decisions and ask a trusted adult for help when needed.

Pupils are encouraged to develop their individual interests, express their views respectfully and participate confidently in school life.

Mutual Respect and Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs

Kindness and collaboration are central to life at Thwaites School. Pupils understand that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect and that their words and actions can affect the rights and wellbeing of others.

Through religious education, PSHE, assemblies and the wider curriculum, pupils learn about different faiths, beliefs, cultures, families and ways of life. They are encouraged to discuss similarities and differences thoughtfully, listen to the views of others and recognise that people may hold beliefs different from their own—or may have no religious belief.

We teach pupils to respect difference and challenge prejudice, discrimination and discriminatory language. This helps them develop the understanding and attitudes they need to participate positively in life in modern Britain.