British Values
The Department for Education have reported the important role which schools have
“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 St Benedict’s we ensure that the DfE’s definition of British Values is delivered throughout school life.
Democracy
"There is one body, but it has many parts. But all its many parts make up one body."
- Students have a voice across the school. The student council is active in school life and regularly reports to the school's Senior Leadership Team on those aspects of school where improvements can be made.
- Students have opportunities throughout the school year to complete surveys in which they can put forward their views about their learning.
- Students are often given opportunities to vote for the charitable causes which the school supports.
- Students study democracy for example in Citizenship and History. They have also seen this in action by organising and taking part in mock elections and leading question and answer sessions with politicians.
- We have links with our current M.P, Jo Churchill and invite those running for election to come in and speak to students.
The Rule of Law
“Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.”
- We have a clear behaviour policy for all to follow. This is visible around school in our 'Classroom Expectations' and in how students interact with each other.
- Within PSHE lessons, students study the role and purpose of the law.
- Each year we send student representatives to take part in a National Mock Trial and Magistrates competition.
Mutual Respect
“Treat others as you wish to be treated”
- Our strong Catholic ethos promotes respect to all.
- The 'Golden Rule' of treating others as you wish to be treated underpins the school's behaviour behaviour policy.
- The 'Golden Rule' is consistently taught within R.E. lessons across the school through topics such as Prejudice and Equality and Human Rights.
Individual Liberty
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another humbly in love”
- Our students are given the freedom to make choices in a supportive environment.
- Within PSHE lessons students study decision making and how they can try to make the best choices.
- Students are given choices throughout their school life. In regards to their learning they are able to choose their GCSE and A Level options and have more specific opportunities throughout their studying too e.g. takeaway homework activities. A number of voluntary Masses and other services and events are offered by the Chaplaincy Team which students freely choose whether or not to attend. Students have the option of participating in the numerous extra-curricular clubs and opportunities offered.
- As a Catholic school, we welcome religious freedom.
Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, for you are all one In Christ”
- All of our students study R.E, including a compulsory GCSE course. The curriculum includes the study of a range of religions and visiting speakers from different faiths.
At St Benedict’s we teach about the dangers of radicalisation and extremism. We have a strong Safeguarding policy which helps to keep our students safe.