In recent years, and as outlined by the Department for Education (DfE), the expectation for schools to promote and teach British values has grown significantly.
Now embedded as a core element of the UK PSHE curriculum and Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), the teaching of fundamental British values is essential to:
- Create a strong sense of belonging and community among pupils,
- Prepare all children for life in modern Britain, and
- Uphold the principles of:
- Democracy
- The rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
Understanding the British values meaning, and purpose is crucial for both educators and students. These values are key to helping children grow into respectful, responsible, and active members of society.
1. Democracy
Teaching British values in schools begins with democracy. Pupils should learn about the democratic process and the significance of having a voice. Activities such as school councils, class debates, and mock elections give children a practical understanding of how democracy works. This also supports the democracy British value by encouraging students to express opinions and make decisions collectively.
Our interactive, alternative-ending videos are ideal for sparking lively, curriculum-linked discussions in the classroom. Grab a free taster pack to see how it works.
2. The Rule of Law
The rule of law British values principle is vital in helping children understand that laws are important for safety and fairness. Schools must consistently reinforce why rules exist and what happens when they are broken. By teaching the British value rule of law, pupils come to understand the roles laws play in classrooms, communities, and the wider UK society.
3. Individual Liberty
Another key value in both primary and early years British values teaching is individual liberty. Schools should create a safe space where children can express themselves freely and learn about personal freedoms. PSHE lessons and programmes like 1decision support pupils in understanding their rights and how to exercise them safely.
Download our student worksheets to support self-awareness, confidence, and responsibility in your classroom.
4. Mutual Respect and Tolerance
Teaching British values in early years and beyond also includes respect for others. Encouraging mutual respect and promoting tolerance of different beliefs are essential aspects of British values democracy. Schools can explore different cultures, religions, and perspectives through inclusive activities and lessons, helping children appreciate diversity in modern Britain.
Compliance and Inspection
Ofsted plays a key role in assessing how schools define and deliver the five British values. Inspections evaluate how well these values are embedded in the school ethos and curriculum. From the EYFS through to Key Stage 2, schools are expected to provide evidence of how they support British values in education across subjects.
Tailoring your approach to suit your school's demographics can enhance the effectiveness of your delivery. This might include incorporating British values definition into history, literature, and citizenship lessons.
The Broader Impact
Understanding and applying the 4 British values or 5 British values - depending on framework - enables pupils to navigate life in a diverse and democratic society. It also contributes to safeguarding efforts, helping schools to counter extremism and promote cohesion.
How Are You Promoting British Values?
Join the conversation and share your approach to teaching British values in schools by visiting https://www.facebook.com/1decisionltd.
To support your classroom, download free British Values posters and teaching resources from our Teacher Zone: https://www.1decision.co.uk/resources/teachers-zone
Practical Tips for Teaching British Values
- Incorporate British values into daily routines and assemblies.
- Use storybooks and circle time to highlight values like mutual respect and individual liberty.
- Organise debates and mock elections to reinforce democracy in action.
- Celebrate cultural festivals to foster tolerance and appreciation of diversity.
Interactive Topics and Assemblies
Did you know that 1decision provides interactive topics and assemblies to support the teaching of British values? These resources are designed to reduce teacher workload and increase engagement in the classroom, making British values more accessible and meaningful for all pupils.
Whole School Training
1decision offers whole school training for primary schools on embedding British values into the curriculum. Our CPD sessions are tailored to support staff in delivering consistent and impactful values education across all year groups.
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How do you promote British values in your classroom? Share your creative ideas with us on social media and tag @1decisionltd.
