We feel that it is our responsibility to prepare children for life in modern Britain. We ensure that the fundamental British Values are introduced, discussed and lived out through our Values-based philosophy that infuses the ethos and work of the school.

These British Values include:

Democracy

At Much Marcle pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our School Parliament. The election of the School Parliament takes place in the Autumn term where children who wish to stand for election campaign, prepare election speeches and then vote to decide on the new candidates. The members meet regularly to discuss school issues, plan upcoming events and to influence school processes and procedures. See our School Parliament page for photos of our election process.

Rule of Law

The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the country, the school, or the individual classes at Much Marcle are consistently reinforced. Pupils are taught the reasons behind laws, that they govern and protect us, the freedoms and responsibilities this gives and the consequences when laws are broken.

We are a very active school and we use all our sporting opportunities, extra-curricular activities and Forest School to help to reinforce the importance of laws and rules.

Individual Liberty

Within school, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices – knowing they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make safe choices through the provision of a safe environment and empowering education.

Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms for example through RE, PSHE, e-safety and growth mindset lessons.

Mutual Respect

Mutual respect is at the heart of all our values. Children learn that their behaviours have an effect upon their own rights and the rights of others. All members of the school community are expected to treat each other with respect. Staff are expected to be good role models at all times. All members of staff including teachers, teaching assistants and lunchtime supervisors receive the same level of respect from staff and pupils. Respect regularly features as one of our focus Christian Values in worship and reflection.

Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs

At Much Marcle we will actively challenge pupils, parents or staff expressing opinions contrary to fundamental British values, including extremist views.

Understanding, and indeed, embracing individuals of differing faiths and beliefs (including those who follow no faith) enriches our school family by broadening our horizons and exploring our commonalities.

All curriculum areas provide a vehicle for furthering understanding of these British Values and lessons provide excellent opportunities to deepen and develop understanding. Children embrace these concepts with enthusiasm and demonstrate a good understanding of their application to their own lives.

At Much Marcle we believe that the way that we understand ourselves and others through these values develops our spirituality.

‘Pupils respond extremely well to the school’s excellent promotion of spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. They have a very clear sense of right and wrong.’ Ofsted 2014