The Department of Education have recently reinforced the need “to create and enforce a clear and rigorous expectation on all schools to promote the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.” At Nidderdale High School, these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:
Democracy
Students are actively encouraged to have a voice and share their views and opinions regularly. All students are expected to take an active role in the various Student Voice opportunities that arise. Senior Students meet regularly to discuss whole school issues. Students have been involved in the creation of policies and the Chair of Governors has been part of Student Voice sessions. All students also complete an annual questionnaire which provides them with the opportunity to share their views of their time in school and suggest ways in which the school could be improved further. Governors receive Student Voice feedback to establish their views as a way of ensuring that school self-evaluation is robust and accurate, and therefore effective in moving the school forward. Students have the opportunity to be involved in the Local Youth Council.
The Rule of Law
The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout the school day, as well as when dealing with misconduct and through school assemblies. Children are taught the value and reasons behind laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Our school expectations of Ready, Respectful & Safe are referred to regularly and consistently upheld, a practical example of this. Visits from authorities such as the Police help reinforce this message. In RE lessons, the difference between religious law and the law of the country are discussed. Senior students are involved in the Youth Voice Summit, which explores British Values, democracy and law.
Individual Liberty
Within school, students are actively encouraged to make decisions and choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for students to take risks and make choices safely. Students are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advised how to exercise these safely, for example through E-Safety and PSHE lessons. Participation in one of our many extra-curricular clubs, Flourish curriculum and enrichment opportunities also gives students the freedom to make choices and decisions.
Mutual Respect
As our school motto, “Achievement for All”, indicates, mutual respect is at the heart of our values. Students learn that their behaviour has an effect on their own rights and those of others. There is an expectation that all members of the school community treat each other with respect.
Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
Nidderdale High School is situated in an area which is not very culturally diverse, therefore it is important we explore diversity with the students; our aim is not to be simply tolerant, but to celebrate diversity and the richness it brings to society. We have a minority of students from faiths other than Christianity, and through our SMSC provision, we ensure these students are equal members of the school community.
We will actively challenge children, staff or parents expressing opinions contrary to fundamental British Values, including those expressing extremist and radical views.
THE ROLE OF THE CURRICULUM
Our curriculum promotes respect, tolerance and diversity. Students are encouraged to express themselves through discussions, debates and consultations. The RE (Religious Education), PSHE (Personal, Social and Health Education), Citizenship and SMSC (Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural) provision is embedded across the curriculum, and underpins the ethos of our school. Students learn about major faiths and visit places of worship wherever possible.
PREVENTING RADICALISATION AND EXTREMISM
Radicalisation is defined as the act or process of making a person more radical or favouring of extreme or fundamental changes in political, economic or social conditions, institutions or habits of the mind.
Extremism is defined as the holding of extreme political or religious views.
The Governing Body of Nidderdale High School has a zero tolerance approach to extremist behaviour for all school community members. We rely on our strong values and ethos to steer our work and ensure the pastoral care of our students protects them from exposure to negative influences. Nidderdale High School is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all its students. As a school we recognise that safeguarding against radicalisation is no different from safeguarding against any other vulnerability. All staff are expected to uphold and promote the fundamental principles of British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect, and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
- Students are encouraged to adopt out motto “Achievement for All”. This complements the key “British Values” of tolerance, respect, understanding, compassion and harmonious living.
- Students are helped to understand the importance of democracy and freedom of speech, through Issue Focuses and PSHE.
- Students are taught how to keep themselves safe, in school and when using the internet. The Pastoral notice board is regularly updated with help-lines and advice about where to turn if in need of support.
- Students participate in local community events so that they appreciate and value their neighbours and friends who may not share their background. There is also a strong culture of working closely with members of other faith communities within RE.
- Student’s wellbeing, confidence and resilience are promoted through our planned curriculum and extra-curricular learning opportunities.
- Students are supported in making good choices so they understand the impact and consequences of their actions on others.
Although serious incidents involving radicalisation have not occurred Nidderdale High School to date, it is important for us to be constantly vigilant and remain fully informed about the issues which affect the region in which we teach. Staff are reminded to refer any concerns through the Child Protection/ Safeguarding Lead Teachers.
