British Values – Intent, Implementation & Impact

Intent

At St Bernard’s RC Primary School, we aim to prepare every child to live as responsible, compassionate citizens who contribute positively to modern British society and the Catholic community. Through our Gospel values of respect, service, and dignity for all, we nurture pupils who understand and uphold the fundamental British values of:
• Democracy
• The Rule of Law
• Individual Liberty
• Mutual Respect
• Tolerance of Those with Different Faiths and Beliefs

We intend for these values to be lived daily—not just taught—so that pupils grow in faith, integrity, and social responsibility. Our approach is rooted in Catholic teaching and guided by evidence-based best practice from the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF), focusing on belonging, relationships, and inclusion.

Implementation

We embed British Values throughout our curriculum, worship, and school life:

• Curriculum Integration – British Values are explicitly taught through Religious Education, PSHE, History, Geography, and assemblies.
• Democracy in Action – Pupil voice is encouraged through the School Council, class votes, and decision-making discussions.
• Rule of Law – Clear behaviour expectations and restorative practices help children understand fairness and responsibility.
• Individual Liberty – Pupils are supported to make safe, informed choices and to express themselves respectfully and confidently.
• Mutual Respect and Tolerance – Our RE curriculum and inclusive ethos celebrate diversity, promoting understanding of all faiths and cultures.
• EEF Best Practice – We apply evidence-informed strategies that promote belonging, emotional literacy, self-regulation, and strong relationships, ensuring every pupil feels valued and heard.
• Catholic Ethos – Our Gospel values and British values work together; pupils learn to live in faith, respect others, and serve their community.

Leaders and teachers model British Values in their relationships, decision-making, and expectations. Assemblies, class discussions, and special events (such as Parliament Week, Remembrance, and multicultural celebrations) reinforce these principles in meaningful ways.

Impact

Our pupils:
• Understand the importance of democracy, laws, freedom, and respect in our society.
• Demonstrate tolerance, empathy, and fairness in their relationships.
• Take responsibility for their behaviour and decisions.
• Show confidence to express opinions and listen to others with respect.
• Participate actively in school life through leadership, service, and community projects.
• Reflect our Catholic mission—Believe, Grow, Succeed—by living out British and Gospel values in harmony.

As a result, St Bernard’s pupils leave our school as thoughtful, caring, and responsible young citizens, equipped to make a positive difference to society and to the Church.