Holy Family Catholic Primary School

The government set out its definition of ‘British values’ in the ‘Prevent Strategy’ (2011), which was designed to prevent the extremism and religious radicalization of young people. British values are considered by the present government to be democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs. The promotion of ‘British values’ is central to Catholic education because British values have their origin in the Christian values of our nation.

       At Holy Family we recognise, not only the importance of helping students to flourish academically but also spiritually, morally, socially and culturally, so they are fully prepared for life in British society and for their role as citizens, able to make the strongest possible contribution to the Common Good of all. We teach the importance of British Values by going much deeper into the meaning of what it means to live a good life, within a framework of Catholic Christian Values. This provides the context and meaning for understanding why British values are important. Our framework for understanding British values draws on the example of Jesus and his welcome and inclusion of all, which is developed in Catholic Social Teaching. At Holy Family, we provide an education which focuses on the formation of the whole person and are guided by our mission statement ‘In all things, love’.   

‘Pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is outstanding because it is promoted across all subjects and all parts of the school day.’                                Ofsted May 2012

Our Catholic ethos, which includes explicit reference to Christian and British values, makes a tangible difference to the way we work together and with our wider communities. Within this framework it would be impossible to overlook the government’s view of British values expressed as ‘democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs.’ The examples that follow are an indication of some of the many ways we seek to embed British values at Holy Family Catholic Primary:

The Rule of Law      The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the School, or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout every day, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through assemblies. The curriculum is designed to ensure pupils are taught the values and reasons behind laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Police and Fire Service are regular parts of our learning programmes and help reinforce this message.

Individual Liberty      Within Holy Family Catholic Primary School, pupils are actively encouraged to make independent choices knowing that they are in a safe, secure and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for students to make choices safely, through the provision of a safe environment and an empowering education. We encourage pupils to see themselves as unique individuals able to make a unique contribution to building community.  Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights, responsibilities and personal freedoms and receive advice about how to exercise these safely, for example through our exploration of E-Safety in computing and their tutor time activities.

‘Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary. They are extremely polite and considerate around school and engage themselves fully during lessons, including when working independently.  Pupils feel a sense of ownership and take pride in their school.’                                                                   Ofsted May 2012

Mutual Respect      Holy Family School promotes respect for others at all levels and this is reiterated through our classroom and learning environments  as well as extra-curricular activities such as sport. In line with our commitment to democracy,  pupils are always able to voice their opinions as we foster an environment where pupils can debate ideas and are safe to disagree with each other. Our emphasis on ethics, fairness and justice means that we ask our pupils to ensure that they look out for those who might be marginalised and disadvantaged.

   Pupils have a well-developed awareness of different types of bullying and demonstrate strong feelings about such behaviour. Bullying in all forms is virtually non-existent and excellent procedures are in place to deal with incidents swiftly and effectively.  Ofsted May 2012

Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs     This is achieved through equipping pupils with the ability to develop positive values, understand their own beliefs and their place in a culturally diverse society. KS2 pupils experience a connection with other cultures and beliefs with visits to places of worship of other world faiths. The emphasis on enterprise, working with others, and learning other languages directly contributes to the appreciation of others perspectives on life. Our RE curriculum follows the teaching of the Church in providing a broad and balanced education, which includes an understanding of and respect for people of other faiths or none and other religions, cultures and lifestyles.