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 it's definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy, and these values were reiterated in 2014. At Buxton Community School these values are regularly promoted through high quality teaching, a rounded programme of assemblies and a positive behaviour policy allowing pupils to develop and demonstrate skills and attitudes that will allow them to participate fully in and contribute positively to life in modern Britain.

Democracy

Democracy underpins the values of the school. All students are treated fairly and have an equal right to express their views and be listened to. Students have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Council and Student Questionnaires. Members of the School Council are elected democratically which introduces them to the principal of democratic elections.

The Rule of Law - consequences of your actions. Right and Wrong

The importance of Laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout regular school days, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through school assemblies. Students are taught the reasons behind school rules, taught the importance of observing those rules and what the consequences will be should they forget to follow any of the rules. We have a strong but positive behaviour policy. Through this we consistently promote our high expectations of all at Buxton Community School. 

Individual Liberty

Within school, 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 young people to make choices safely, throught the provision of a safe environment and 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 our E-Safety and PSHE lessons. Whether it is through choice of challenge, of how they record,  of participation in our extra-curricular and lunchtime clubs, pupils are given the freedom to make choices.

Mutual Respect

We believe that respect for others is a vital component of moral development. Students regularly take part in discussions where they are expected to treat the opinions and views of others with respect, even if they differ from their own. We actively support all to develop their own reasoned views about moral and ethical issues. We encourage all pupils to understand that they have rights and responsibilities as citizens within the school and the wider community. Our community involvement and fundraising activities enables students to show respect and generosity to others outside our school community.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

Buxton Community School is situated in an area which is not greatly culturally diverse, therefore we place emphasis on  promoting diversity with the students.  Our Religious Studies and PSHE teaching reinforce this. We aim to enhance students understanding of different faiths and beliefs.

At Buxton Community School we will actively challenge pupils, staff or parents expressing opinions contrary to fundamental British Values, including'extremist' views.