Our Lady Queen of Peace

British Values at St Joseph’s

At St Joseph’s, we actively promote the fundamental British Values in all aspects of school life. These values help prepare our children to become thoughtful, responsible citizens in modern Britain. While deeply rooted in our Catholic ethos, these values are for everyone and are woven throughout our curriculum, assemblies, and wider school community.

What Are the British Values?

The Department for Education defines five key British Values:

1. Democracy
2. The Rule of Law
3. Individual Liberty
4. Mutual Respect
5. Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

1. Democracy
   We believe that every child’s voice matters.
   Pupils regularly take part in class discussions and votes, learning how to express opinions and listen to others.
   Our elected School Council gives children a say in real decisions, from charity events to improvements around school.
   Assemblies highlight national democratic events like general elections and Parliament Week, encouraging children to understand and value our democratic system.
2. The Rule of Law
   We help children understand that rules are there to protect everyone and to keep our community safe.
   Clear school rules and behaviour expectations are taught and reinforced consistently.
   Children learn about fairness, justice, and responsibility through RSHE and RE lessons.
   Visitors such as police officers and fire services help explain the role of law in society.
   Assemblies often include stories and scripture focusing on right and wrong, actions and consequences.
3. Individual Liberty
   We encourage all children to make positive choices, express themselves, and grow in confidence.
   How we promote it:
   Pupils are supported in making safe, respectful decisions and are given the freedom to express opinions.
   Lessons in RSHE and RE promote understanding of personal rights, freedom, and the importance of making good choices.
   Assemblies focus on inspirational individuals and themes such as courage, standing up for what is right, and celebrating individuality.
4. Mutual Respect
   Respect is one of our core values. We teach that every person is made in the image of God and deserves to be treated with kindness and dignity.
   Respect is modelled by staff and expected from all pupils in every part of school life.
   Our curriculum and assemblies highlight themes such as teamwork, friendship, and compassion.
   Events such as Anti-Bullying Week and Respect Day help deepen children’s understanding and awareness.
5. Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
   At St Joseph’s, we celebrate the rich diversity of our school, our local community, and the wider world. As a Catholic school, we teach that every person is made in the image of God and deserves to be treated with dignity, kindness, and understanding—regardless of their faith or background.
   Through RE and RSHE, children learn about different faiths, cultures, and beliefs alongside Catholic teaching. They explore similarities and differences with respect and curiosity.
   We mark a variety of religious and cultural celebrations throughout the year, including Diwali, Eid, Hanukkah, Chinese New Year, and more. These are explored through assemblies, class activities, stories, music, and art.

Our assemblies often focus on themes of unity, peace, and respect for others. We share stories from different faith traditions and highlight the importance of treating everyone with compassion and fairness.