British Values
Promoting British Values at Weston Village Primary School
At Weston Village Primary School, we are passionate about preparing children to become responsible, respectful, and active citizens—locally, nationally, and globally. Central to our ethos of Be the Best You Can Be is ensuring that every child embraces the values that help them succeed as members of a diverse and inclusive society.
We actively promote the Fundamental British Values, as defined by the Department for Education:
✔ Democracy
✔ The Rule of Law
✔ Individual Liberty
✔ Mutual Respect
✔ Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs
These values are woven through our curriculum, school culture, and everyday experiences, giving children not only the knowledge but also the skills and attitudes they need to thrive in modern Britain.
How We Promote British Values at Weston
Democracy
Children at Weston know that their voice matters. Through the Student Ambassador Teams, Junior Ambassadors, and School Council, our pupils take part in elections, make decisions, and represent their peers.
🗳️ "I liked voting for our class council. It felt important!" — Year 3 pupil
We regularly gather Pupil Voice through surveys and feedback, giving children a say in how the school is run and encouraging them to be active participants in their learning and community.
The Rule of Law
Our children understand the importance of rules in keeping everyone safe and happy. We teach them the reasons behind our school rules, the role of laws in society, and the consequences of choices.
🚓 Visits from local PCSOs, fire services, and sports officials help reinforce these lessons in real-life contexts.
📝 "We talked about laws in assembly and why we have to follow them. It’s about keeping people safe." — Year 5 pupil
Individual Liberty
At Weston, children are encouraged to make safe, informed choices and to take responsibility for their actions. Whether it’s choosing a learning challenge, participating in extra-curricular activities, or sharing their ideas, we help children understand their rights and freedoms—always within a safe and supportive environment.
🦋 "I chose to be in the eco team because I care about looking after animals and the planet." — Year 4 pupil
We also empower children through e-safety, PSHE, and Citizenship lessons to understand their personal freedoms and how to exercise them responsibly.
Mutual Respect
Respect is one of our core school values. We expect children to treat everyone they meet with kindness, fairness, and consideration. We explicitly teach the importance of respect through our Secrets of Success and the Home-School Agreement, and model it in all relationships across school.
🤝 "We respect each other even if we’re different. That’s what makes our school a nice place to be." — Year 6 pupil
From team sports to paired reading, we give children daily opportunities to practise mutual respect.
Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs
Weston Village is not a culturally diverse area, so we place a strong emphasis on teaching children about different cultures, religions, and beliefs. Through RE, PSHE, and assemblies, we help children appreciate diversity and celebrate the richness of the wider world.
🎉 Children learn about Diwali, Eid, Hanukkah, and Chinese New Year, and we welcome visitors and parents into school to share their experiences.
🕌 "We made lanterns for Diwali and learned that it’s a festival of light. It was fun and interesting!" — Year 2 pupil
We are proactive in creating opportunities for children to understand and appreciate faiths and beliefs beyond their immediate experience.
Our Citizenship Curriculum
British Values are embedded throughout our Citizenship and PSHE Curriculum, which is taught in all year groups from EYFS through Year 6. Topics such as democracy, justice, liberty, and tolerance are revisited at age-appropriate levels so that children deepen their understanding as they move through school.
For example:
Years 1 & 2 learn about belonging, community, and diversity
Years 3 & 4 focus on democracy, law, and tolerance
Years 5 & 6 explore government, law, and how they can make a positive contribution to society
Upholding British Values
At Weston, we will actively challenge pupils, staff, parents, or visitors who express opinions contrary to fundamental British Values, including extremist views.
If you have concerns or would like to learn more about how we promote British Values, please contact the school office to arrange a conversation with the Headteacher.