As part of the broad and balanced curriculum we offer at Leigh Academy Dartford, we have a commitment to promote fundamental British values as part of the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of our children.
Children that come to Leigh Academy Dartford will learn about British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
Democracy – How do we promote this?
- Through our transdisciplinary themes and national curriculum delivery, children learn about the advantages and disadvantages of democracy and how it works in Britain, in contrast to other forms of government in other countries.
- All children within the Academy have a voice and are listened to; we actively promote democratic processes by holding school council and house captain elections, whose members are voted for by the children.
- Organise visits to the local council and Parliament
- Hold ‘mock elections’ to promote fundamental British values and provide children with the opportunity to learn how to argue and defend points of view.
- Help pupils to express their views
Rule of Law – How do we promote this?
- Ensure Academy rules and expectations are clear and fair through our ‘Green to Go’ behaviour management system. This system encourages children to accept responsibility for their behaviour, show initiative and to understand how they can contribute positively to life at Leigh Academy Dartford.
- Help children to distinguish right from wrong.
- Help children to respect the law and the basis on which it is made.
- Help children to understand that living under the rule of law protects individuals.
- Include visits from outside agencies in the curriculum to teach children about road safety and public services such as the Police.
- Teach children aspects of both civil and criminal law and discuss how this might differ from some religious laws.
Individual Liberty – How do we promote this?
- Support children to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence.
- Encourage children to take responsibility for their behaviour, as well as knowing their rights.
- Children to have freedom of speech, challenge stereotypes and has built a strong anti-bullying culture at our Academy.
Respect and Tolerance – How do we promote this?
- Promote respect for individual differences by discussing differences between people, such as differences of faith, ethnicity, disability and gender.
- Help children to acquire an understanding of, and respect for, their own and other cultures and ways of life.
- Challenge prejudicial or discriminatory behaviour.
- Organise visits to places of worship.