British Values

At St Bernard's RC Primary School, we believe that preparing children for life in modern Britain is an essential part of our mission as a Catholic school.

Our Catholic faith and the fundamental British Values are not separate ideas. They work together to help children become thoughtful, compassionate and responsible citizens who understand both their rights and their responsibilities towards others.

We want our children to leave St Bernard's with the confidence to use their voices wisely, the courage to stand up for what is right and the compassion to serve their communities with kindness and integrity.

British Values are therefore not taught as isolated lessons.

They are lived every day through the culture of our school.

Intent

Our intention is to develop children who understand the importance of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs, while recognising that every person is created in the image and likeness of God.

We want every child to understand that diversity is one of society's greatest strengths and that differences should be welcomed with curiosity, respect and kindness.

Our aim is to prepare children not only to succeed academically but also to become active, responsible citizens who contribute positively to their local community and the wider world.

Through our Catholic mission, Believe. Grow. Succeed., we encourage children to become people of integrity who are able to think critically, make wise decisions, challenge injustice and show compassion towards others.

We want every child to leave St Bernard's with the confidence to live alongside people from all backgrounds, cultures and beliefs, recognising that everyone deserves dignity, fairness and respect.

Implementation

British Values are woven throughout every aspect of school life.

Children experience democracy by having genuine opportunities to share their opinions, influence school improvement and contribute to decision-making. Through our School Improvement Team, Faith Team, Laudato Si' Team, Sports Leaders and Peer Mediators, pupils learn that leadership is about listening, serving others and making a positive difference.

Respect for the rule of law is developed through our consistent expectations, restorative approach to behaviour and The St Bernard's Way. Children learn that rules exist to protect everyone's rights, promote fairness and help communities flourish. They are encouraged to take responsibility for their choices and understand the importance of justice, forgiveness and reconciliation.

Individual liberty is promoted by helping children develop confidence, independence and resilience. Through our curriculum and wider opportunities, children are encouraged to express their views respectfully, make informed choices, develop their talents and understand that freedom brings responsibility towards others.

Mutual respect lies at the heart of our school community. Our inclusive culture teaches children to value every person, recognising that each individual has unique gifts, experiences and perspectives. Children learn to communicate respectfully, celebrate one another's achievements and resolve disagreements with empathy and understanding.

Tolerance of different faiths, beliefs and cultures is developed through our Religious Education curriculum, wider curriculum experiences, literature, assemblies, educational visits and celebrations of the diverse world in which we live. Children are encouraged to ask questions, appreciate different viewpoints and recognise the richness that diversity brings to our society.

Across the curriculum, children explore significant historical events, current affairs, environmental responsibility, equality, human rights and social justice. Inspired by Catholic Social Teaching, they are encouraged to consider how they can use their own gifts to build a fairer, kinder and more peaceful world.

Our safeguarding curriculum, online safety education, Relationships Education and personal development programme also help children understand how to make safe, respectful and responsible choices both in school and beyond.

Impact

The impact of our approach can be seen in the attitudes, character and confidence of our children.

Children understand that every person deserves dignity and respect, regardless of background, belief or circumstance. They are confident in expressing their own opinions while listening thoughtfully to the views of others.

Children demonstrate kindness, fairness and empathy in their daily interactions. They understand the importance of taking responsibility for their actions and recognise that strong communities are built upon respect, honesty and service.

Children develop the confidence to become active participants in school life. They willingly take on leadership responsibilities, contribute to decision-making and understand that their voices can make a positive difference.

Our children are curious about the wider world. They appreciate diversity, celebrate difference and demonstrate respect for people of all faiths, cultures and beliefs. They reject discrimination and understand the importance of standing against prejudice, injustice and intolerance.

Families experience a school where children are prepared not only for the next stage of education but also for life in a diverse and democratic society.

Ultimately, our children leave St Bernard's as young people who are confident in who they are, respectful of others and committed to making a positive contribution to the world around them.

They understand that being a good citizen begins with being a good neighbour.

They know that leadership means service.

They recognise that true freedom is found in using their gifts for the good of others.

That is how we prepare our children to flourish in modern Britain.

This is how we continue becoming the school God wants us to be.

"Love your neighbour as yourself."
Mark 12:31