PD - British Values
Developing respectful, responsible and active citizens.
Our Commitment to British Values
At Ferryhill School, we are committed to preparing every student for life in modern Britain by promoting the fundamental British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. These values are an important part of our school ethos and complement our own values of Integrity, Creativity and Excellence, alongside our commitment that Everyone’s Welcome.
We believe that education extends beyond academic achievement. Our aim is to help students develop the knowledge, understanding, confidence and skills needed to make informed decisions, respect others, understand their rights and responsibilities, and contribute positively to society.
British Values are not simply taught as individual topics. They are reinforced through our Personal Development curriculum, tutor programme, assemblies, Religious Education, Citizenship, student voice and wider school experiences. Through these opportunities, students are encouraged to think critically, explore different perspectives, challenge discrimination and understand the importance of living in a respectful and democratic society.
Understanding Fundamental British Values
British Values Across Years 7–11
Your five-year infographic works well, but I would introduce it with a short sentence to make the relationship between curriculum teaching and the whole-school approach clear.
British Values Beyond the Classroom
British Values are reinforced throughout everyday school life, not simply through dedicated curriculum lessons.
Our Tutor Programme and Life Talks
Students explore important social issues, consider different perspectives and develop respectful communication, reasoning and active listening.
Our Assembly Programme
Assemblies provide opportunities to explore human rights, anti-bullying, remembrance, equality, disability awareness, citizenship, environmental responsibility and wider social issues.
Student Leadership and Student Voice
We recognise the importance of listening to students and providing opportunities for them to contribute to school life. Their views and experiences help inform our ongoing work to create a positive and inclusive community.
Careers Education and Future Pathways
Our careers programme helps students develop informed aspirations, understand workplace rights and responsibilities, challenge stereotypes and prepare for their future contribution to society.
Wider School Experiences
Enrichment, educational visits, community activities and opportunities to work with others help students develop responsibility, independence, understanding and respect.
British Values and Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development
The promotion of fundamental British Values is an important part of our whole-school approach to Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) development.
Through our curriculum, school culture and wider experiences, students are encouraged to reflect on their beliefs and values, respect different perspectives, understand their rights and responsibilities, and recognise the importance of fairness, equality and inclusion.
Together, these experiences help students develop the confidence and understanding needed to contribute positively to school life and wider society.
Preparing Students for Life Beyond Ferryhill
By the time students leave Ferryhill School, we want them to:
Understand the importance of democracy and participation.
Recognise how laws protect individuals and society.
Understand and respect individual rights and freedoms.
Demonstrate respect for people with different backgrounds, faiths and beliefs.
Recognise and challenge prejudice, discrimination and harmful behaviour.
Develop confidence in making informed and responsible decisions.
Communicate respectfully and consider different perspectives.
Understand how they can make a positive contribution to their communities.
Through our planned curriculum and wider school experiences, we aim to prepare students to become informed, confident, respectful and responsible members of society.