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.”
At our academy these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:
Democracy is embedded at the academy. Students are always listened to by adults and are taught to listen carefully and with concern for each other, respecting the right of every individual to have their opinions and voices heard. Students also have the opportunity to air their opinions and ideas through our School Council and student questionnaires.
The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the academy, or the country, are consistently reinforced at our academy. Each classroom displays a set of rules that are regularily discussed with students and are clearly understood by all, they are necessary to ensure that every class member is able to learn in a safe and ordered environment. Students 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 laws are broken. The Academy maintains close links with the Safer Neighbourhood Team and other public services to help reinforce this message.
At our academy, students 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 students to make informed choices, through a safe environment and an empowering education. Students are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advised how to exercise these safely, for example through Curriculum days and PSHE lessons.
Respect is one of the core values of our academy. Our students are fully involved in the promotion of our academy values and it is deeply embedded in all that we do. The students know and understand that it is expected and imperative that respect is shown to everyone, whatever differences we may have and to everything, however big or small. The core value of Respect at Stoke High School – Ormiston Academy underpins our work every day both in and out of the classroom.
Our core value of Respect ensures tolerance of those who have different faiths and beliefs. Stoke High School – Ormiston Academy enhances students understanding of different faiths and beliefs through religious education studies, assemblies, and PSHE lessons.
At our academy we actively challenge students, staff or parents expressing opinions contrary to fundamental British values, including ‘extremist’ views.