At BVP, we actively promote the Fundamental British Values, as outlined by the Department for Education. These values are a vital part of our school ethos and are embedded across the curriculum, in assemblies, and throughout everyday school life. 

The Fundamental British Values are:

We aim to equip our pupils with skills and understanding to become well-rounded, responsible citizens who can make a positive contribution to their community and society as a whole. 

British Values are not taught in isolation - they are an integral part of the way we live and learn at BVP. 

Democracy

We teach pupils about the importance of democracy and the power of having a voice. Every year, children vote for their class representatives on the School Council. These elections help pupils understand how citizens can influence decision-making through democratic processes. 

Children are also encouraged to express their views in class discussions, questionnaires and through pupil voice surveys. 

"I'm a Rights Respecting School Ambassador so I had a say in what we did for Cultures Day and could choose how we celebrated it" 

"It's important that we all get a chance to share our ideas as we are all as important as one another"

The Rule of Law 

Pupils learn about the importance of rules and laws in class, in school and in wider society. We have clear school rules and behaviour expectations, and the children understand the reasons behind them - to keep everyone safe and happy.

We regularly invite local police officers and other authorities into school to talk about the importance of following laws and making responsible choices. 

"Children have rights and they help keep us safe and happy"

"If someone breaks the rules, there are consequences and the consequence you get depends on what rules have been broken"

Individual Liberty

At BVP, pupils are encouraged to make their own choices in a safe and supportive environment. We teach children about their rights and responsibilities and give them the freedom to make informed decisions about their learning, play and extracurricular activities.

We also help children understand how to stay safe - including online - and to respect the choices of others. 

"We get to choose what we want to eat at lunch every day"

"Our school cares, the teachers and all the staff care so it makes you feel special and easier to talk to them when you need to"

Mutual Respect

Respect is one of our core school values. It is taught through assemblies, PSHE lessons and modelled by all adults in school. Children learn that their behaviour affects their rights and the rights of others. We encourage an atmosphere of mutual respect and care throughout the school. 

We celebrate differences and encourage children to value the thoughts, feelings and beliefs of others. 

"We don't discriminate against others, we include each other so nobody feels left out"

"If I see somebody upset, because they've been discriminated against, I remind them they are are one of everyone in this school"

Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs 

Our RE and PSHE curriculum provides opportunities to learn about a variety of cultures, beliefs and faiths. We hold assemblies and events to mark religious festivals and invite visitors from different backgrounds to share their experiences. 

We actively challenge prejudice and discrimination and promote inclusive attitudes among our pupils. 

"We've learnt about many different religions and cultures - Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, Islam, Buddhism, Atheist, Humanism and Judaism"

"It is important to learn about how other people live and what they believe for the future - so you don't judge others, know what other religions are and understand what they can and can't do"

British Values are promoted across the curriculum and through wider school activities, such as:

"We get to vote and choose the School Council for our class"

"We have clubs that suit all of our interests"

"The voting system we use makes it more fun for everyone"

"If I didn't get a choice in what we were doing, I'd find it harder to listen and wouldn't find school as interesting"