BRITISH VALUES
Catholic Values, British Values PolicyThe government set out their definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy. These were reinforced in September 2014. These new regulations will sit alongside the requirements of the Equalities Act, which also applies to all types of schools.
Schools are expected to focus on, and be able to show, how our work with pupils is effective in embedding fundamental British values.
The Department for Education’s five-part definition of British values covers:
- democracy
- rule of law
- individual liberty
- mutual respect
- tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
At St George’s, we recognize not only the importance of helping students to flourish academically but also spiritually, morally, socially and culturally, so they are fully prepared for life in British society and for their role as citizens, able to make the strongest possible contribution to the Common Good of all. We teach the importance of British Values by going much deeper into the meaning of what it means to live a good life, within a framework of Catholic Christian Values. This provides the context and meaning for understanding why British values are important.
Our framework for understanding British values draws on the example of Jesus and his welcome and inclusion of all, which is developed in Catholic Social Teaching. At St George’s, we provide an education which focuses on the formation of the whole person and on our vocation and purpose in life. We are guided by our mission statement, ‘to be the best we can, showing Christ’s love in all we do’ and by the Christian values of honourable purpose (that is, vocation and service), respect, compassion, co-operation and stewardship as we reflect on our place and purpose in the world. We place a significant emphasis on the celebration of individuality and difference within our communities and our calling to work for the Common Good, in the service of others. Our Catholic ethos, which includes explicit reference to Christian and British values, makes a tangible difference to the way we work together and with our wider communities.
Democracy
A culture built upon freedom and equality, where everyone is aware of their rights and responsibilities.
Individual Liberty
Protection of your rights and the right of others.
Mutual Respect
Respecting the values, ideas and beliefs of others whilst not imposing our own others.
Rule of Law
The need for rules to make a happy, safe and secure environment to live and work.
Tolerance
Understanding that we all don’t share the same beliefs and values.
