British Values
Coppetts Wood is committed to serving its community and recognises the multi-cultural, multi faith and ever-changing nature of the United Kingdom. As a ‘Community School’, we accept admissions from all those entitled to an education under British law, including pupils of all faiths or no faith. We follow the policies outlined by our governing body regarding equal opportunities, ensuring there is no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar. We seek to serve all.
The Government emphasises that schools are required to ensure that key ‘British Values’ are taught in all U.K. schools. The government set out its definition of British values in the ‘Prevent Strategy’ - values of:
- Democracy
- The rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Mutual respect
- Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
At Coppetts Wood, we reinforce these values though a wide range of activities. See the links below for examples of when and where such British Values are shared. These lists is not exhaustive, and represents only some of what we do.
Democracy:
Democracy is evident within the school, particularly in our school council. For example, children run election campaigns to become school councillors including posters, speeches etc. There is then a secret ballot, including ballot boxes, in each school council group! Children have the opportunity to have their voices heard through the School Council and questionnaires and pupil voice interviews. School Council facilitates the promotion of democratic processes, fostering the concept and application of freedom of speech and group action to address needs and concerns. The groups meet fortnightly in mixed age groups with all children from Year 1 upwards participating.
The Rule of Law:
The importance of law and rules generally, whether they are those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced through classroom practice, assemblies, the curriculum and by dealing with any issues as they arise. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind rules and laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when rules/laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Police are regular parts of our calendar and help reinforce this message.
Individual Liberty:
Within school, pupils 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 pupils to make choices safety, through of provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advise how to exercise these safely, for example through our Online Safety and PSHE lessons. Whether it be through choice of challenge, of how they record, of participation in our numerous extra-curricular clubs and opportunities, pupils are given the freedom to make choices.
Mutual Respect:
Mutual respect is a key part of our ethos and one of our core values, chosen by the children. Children learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community treat each other with respect. Through our Behaviour Policy and in celebration assemblies successes are recognised and celebrated by children and staff alike.
Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs:
Through our teaching of R.E. we aim to give our children a greater understanding of religious diversity and practices. R.E. at Coppetts Wood covers the key religions represented in the UK and planning is based on the Barnet Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education. Assemblies celebrate and recognise both Christianity and other religions. Members of different faiths or religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes and the school.