Teaching British Values for life in modern Britain

We teach a values-based education based on our school values (Respect, Kindness, Friendship, Empathy, Resilience, Collaboration, Equality, Reflection, Courage and Independence) and British values (The Rule of Law, Mutual Respect, Individual Liberty, Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs and Democracy). We believe these to be the key to build mature and responsible attitudes so that our pupils are ready to take their place in modern Britain.  These values are displayed in classrooms and in corridor displays around the school, showcasing how these values are demonstrated at Danson.  Each of these values is discussed and reflected upon across the year in assemblies, PSHE lessons and links are made in other curriculum areas where relevant.

We value the backgrounds of all of our pupils and families and celebrate similarities and differences in our community and the wider world.

Our global links with a school in Malawi and our involvement in Rights Respecting Schools encourages a greater understanding of how life is similar and different. We have a range of practical investigations every term which  includes topics on Water, Deforestation, Food, Waste and Litter.

Our wide range of Creative Curriculum topics have strong links to the past as well as the present and enables the pupils to understand how life in modern Britain has evolved. Our pupils enjoy learning about people in the past and in particular those who have had an impact on the modern world and our community. Pupils are taught about significant periods in British history and are encouraged to identify these in chronological order. A range of activities are planned to broaden the children’s cultural experiences, including French lessons, enrichment days, educational trips and on-site workshops. The ‘Classes’ tab on the School website provides more information and includes educational visits.

The RE curriculum is planned directly from the new Bexley Agreed Syllabus 2021-2026. The syllabus is based on the principal aim of RE which is to engage pupils in systematic enquiry into significant human questions, which religion and worldviews address, so that they can develop the understanding and skills needed to appreciate and appraise varied responses to these questions, as well as develop responses of their own. This is broken down into the three strands of Believing, Expressing and Understanding for the purposes of teaching and learning. Some units that are taught are discrete relating  to one religion and others are thematic units relating to multiple religions.  The syllabus also includes world and non-religious views.As a result, pupils learn respect for others which is based on a deeper knowledge and understanding.

Democracy

All stakeholders have a voice and contributions are valued from adults and children. Elections for the Head Boy, Girl and their Deputies involve speeches and campaigns. Everyone has the chance to decide House Captains and Vice Captains, Schools Council, Sports Council and Eco Council representatives through a democratic vote. We encourage our pupils to have opinions in an environment where they feel safe to disagree with each other.

Living within the law of modern Britain

An understanding of the importance of why rules are necessary underpins our relationships with others and their property, whether in school, the local and wider community and the world. Pupils are taught the importance of keeping safe, both physically and in terms of e-safety. Children understand the Golden Rules and behaviour policy and individual Class Charters are developed with the children. The children are aware of the consequences of breaking rules both in and outside of school.

Individual Liberty

This  is the understanding that, as long as we do not break the law, we can live as we choose and have our own opinions about things. At Danson, we ensure the children understand that they have a voice and are listened to. They are encouraged to make their own decisions,  this can be seen not only in how they behave and present themselves but also through their academic work.  All of the children at Danson have the right to share their opinions but they also understand that they have the responsibility to listen and be considerate to the opinions of others. During our PSHE lessons, children particularly demonstrate this value. We have worry boxes in all classrooms to ensure that all children are listened to and understood.

Mutual respect

The children of Danson understand that they might not always agree with other people, but they show respect for their thoughts and feelings. They are respectful and expect others to show respect in return. This is demonstrated in all aspects of the children’s daily lives whether it be within the classroom environment or outside in the playground.

Tolerance of those of different faith and beliefs

This is the acceptance that other people might have different beliefs to our own as well as belonging to different faiths. At Danson we encourage the children to have a good understanding of other faiths and cultures. We do this in many different ways including our specific Religious Education lessons as well as the special days that take place to celebrate different cultures, faiths and beliefs. This allows the children to develop a considerate and respectful approach to those who have different beliefs, cultures or faiths to themselves, enabling them to learn to become more tolerant of others.