Gorse Covert Primary School

British Values at Gorse Covert Primary School

At Gorse Covert Primary School,  British Values are an important part of everyday school life. They are not taught in isolation, but are woven through our curriculum, assemblies, discussions and the leadership opportunities we offer to children.

Our approach helps pupils to understand themselves, respect others and develop the confidence to play an active, positive role in modern Britain.

Our Commitment to Inclusion – No Outsiders

We are proud to be a No Outsiders School. This means we actively promote equality, diversity and inclusion so that every child feels safe, valued and able to be themselves.

Through age-appropriate stories, discussions and learning experiences, children learn that:

• Everyone is welcome
• Difference should be respected and celebrated
• There are no outsiders in our school community

This approach supports children to develop empathy, challenge stereotypes and understand fairness and equality in the world around them.

How We Teach and Promote British Values

Using Picture News

We use Picture News to help children understand British Values in a meaningful, relevant and age-appropriate way.

Each week, a current news story is shared with pupils and explored through discussion. These stories are carefully chosen to link to one of the British Values and encourage children to:

• Ask questions and share opinions
• Listen respectfully to different viewpoints
• Make connections between learning and real-life events

This helps children understand how British Values apply in the world today and supports the development of critical thinking and respectful dialogue.

Democracy

Children are encouraged to share their views and take part in decision-making within school. This includes:

• An active School Council, where pupils represent their peers
• Voting and discussion activities in class and assemblies
• Opportunities to influence school improvement and daily school life

Children learn that their voices matter and that change can happen through discussion and collective action.

The Rule of Law

Clear expectations help children understand the importance of rules in keeping everyone safe and ensuring fairness.

Through lessons, routines and discussions, children learn:

• Why rules and laws exist
• How they apply in school and in wider society
• That actions have consequences

Preparing Children for Life in Modern Britain

By embedding British Values across school life, we aim to develop children who are:

• Respectful and tolerant
• Confident and resilient
• Able to think critically and express their views

Ready to contribute positively to their community

Our aim is for every child to leave Gorse Covert Primary School feeling included, valued and prepared for life in modern Britain.