In June 2014, David Cameron emphasised the important role of British values in education. In November 2014, the Department for Education published guidance on the promotion of British values in the school curriculum. At Bungay High School this is not something new. The promotion of British values is firmly established in our curricular and extra-curricular programmes as well as being embedded in our ethos and culture.
School leaders give a high priority to the promotion of respect and tolerance across the school - Ofsted, 2016
Democracy
The principles of democracy are promoted through many school activities. Our School Council and House Council elections are conducted democratically. The process reflects the British electoral system and demonstrates democracy in action. Students stand for election, vote in a secret ballot and are given an understanding of electoral processes. Student voice is heard through these bodies and through many activities at departmental and house level. There have been many examples of the Student Council effecting genuine change within the school. Departments conduct regular surveys of student views on teaching and learning. House groups regularly seek students views on a variety of issues. The Sixth Form Teaching and Learning Committee and Social Committee ensure that student voice is heard in the Sixth Form.
Those pupils who are members of the school council take pride in their role and are keen to represent the views of their peers - Ofsted, 2016
The Rule of Law
The importance of rules, whether they be those which govern the country, the school or the class is consistently reinforced in our day to day school activities. Students understand the value of and reasons for the rules which govern and protect us, the responsibilities associated with them and the consequences when laws are broken. Through curricular programmes in history, PSHEE and RE the place of the Rule of Law within our society is explored. Legal issues are highlighted across many curriculum areas in connection with specific topics. e.g. social legislation in health and social care lessons, planning legislation in geography, health & safety legislation in science and technology lessons, food hygiene legislation in food technology lessons etc.
Individual Liberty
Within school our students are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for young people to make choices safety, through the provision of a safe environment and an empowering education. Students are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and consider how to exercise these safely, for example through our E-Safety, PSHEE and RE programmes. Our numerous extra-curricular clubs and opportunities give students the freedom to choose participation and challenge.
Mutual Respect
Our core values are based on mutual respect. Our Behaviour Policy which highlights learning expectations is based on respect for each other in a mutually supportive learning environment. Other policies such as Anti-Bullying and Racist Incidents all reinforce the principles of mutual respect which are at the heart of our school. Our students know and understand that it is expected and imperative that respect is shown to everyone, whatever differences we may have, and to everything, whether it is a school resource, a religious belief or a philosophical view. Students learn that their behaviour choices have an effect on their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community should treat each other with respect. Our day to day procedures, classroom expectations, social interactions and professional relationship are all based on a clear expectation that mutual respect is at the heart of our organisation.
Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs.
Through enhancing students understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to appreciate such diversity, we promote tolerance of different beliefs. Through our Religious Education curriculum, students develop an understanding of a variety of beliefs. Assemblies on themes such as anti-bullying and prejudice ensure that students are encouraged to tolerate and embrace difference. Our Behaviour Policy and Anti-Bullying Policy ensure that prejudice related incidents are challenged, resolved, recorded and reported to Governors.
It should be noted that whilst tolerance is actively promoted, we would actively challenge students, staff, parents or governors expressing opinions contrary to fundamental British values, including extremist views.