British Values

The DfE have recently reinforced the need “to create and enforce a clear and rigorous expectation on all schools to promote the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.”

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. At Leapfrogs these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:

We let children know their views count and encourage everyone to value each other’s opinions and values. We help demonstrate democracy in action, for example, by letting children share views on what activity should come next with a show of hands.

Provide activities that involve turn-taking, sharing and collaboration

Give children opportunities to develop enquiring minds by creating an atmosphere at Leapfrogs where all questions are valued

We ensure that children understand their own and others’ behaviour and its consequences, helping them to distinguish right from wrong

We work with children to create the rules and the codes of behaviour, such as agreeing the rules about tidying up, and also ensuring children understand that the rules apply to everyone.

Independence is promoted from the time they begin at Leapfrogs

Successes are celebrated through the children’s learning journals and star of the week

Provide opportunities for children to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and increase their confidence in their own abilities, for example, through allowing children to take risks on an obstacle course and talking about their experiences and learning

Encourage a range of experiences that allow the children to explore the language of feelings and responsibility, reflect on their differences and understand everyone is free to have different opinions

We encourage and explain to children about the importance of tolerant behaviours, such as sharing and respecting each other’s opinions

Promote diverse attitudes and challenge stereotypes, for example, by sharing stories that reflect and value the diversity of children’s experiences

Setting up a role play area on a daily basis so children can be encouraged to show empathy and understanding of others

Provide resources and activities that challenge gender, cultural and racial stereotyping

Create an ethos of inclusivity and tolerance at Leapfrogs where views, faiths, cultures and races are valued

Arrange visits whereby children can engage with the wider community

Encourage children to acquire a tolerance, appreciation and respect for their own and other cultures by discussing with children the similarities and differences between themselves and others; and among families, faiths, communities, cultures and traditions

Share and discuss practices, celebrations and experiences through our wow sheets and our curriculum. We celebrate many cultural festivals and religions all year round.