How we promote British Values at South Bank Primary School…

Democracy

Pupil Voice and Democracy at South Bank Primary School

At South Bank Primary School, we believe it’s important to value everyone’s opinions. Our pupil councils and their elected members play a real and meaningful role in shaping teaching and learning across the school.

Pupil voice is highly valued here, and our pupils are actively involved in many decisions that affect their school life. Councillors are chosen through votes cast by the children themselves, and we trust them to make thoughtful and informed choices.

Every year, pupils also share their views through our pupil questionnaire, which runs alongside our parent questionnaire. This helps us understand what is working well and where we can improve.

Our curriculum supports this commitment by teaching children about democracy—how different societies have been governed throughout history and how our British democratic system works today. Even our school behaviour policy reflects pupil input, with rewards chosen by each class through voting.

By involving pupils in these ways, we help them learn about responsibility, respect, and the power of their voice in a democratic community.

Rule of Law

Understanding and Respecting the Rule of Law at South Bank Primary School

At South Bank Primary School, we help our pupils understand the importance of laws and rules in keeping our society fair and safe. Through our curriculum, children learn why rules are made, how they help everyone live together peacefully, and how similar rules work in other parts of the world.

We teach children about the importance of following laws and making responsible choices in their behaviour and learning. To bring this to life, we regularly invite law enforcement officers to visit assemblies and classrooms, giving pupils the chance to learn firsthand how the law protects them and how they can work within it.

Our classes follow the Newcomen Courtesy Code of Conduct Ten Commandments, a set of rules created by our School Council. This means our pupils have a say in deciding the best ways to create a positive and respectful learning environment for everyone.

By learning about the rule of law, our children grow into responsible citizens who understand their rights and responsibilities.

Individual Liberty

Individual Liberty at South Bank Primary School

At South Bank Primary School, we actively encourage our pupils to make choices and express themselves in a safe and supportive environment. We believe it’s important to provide clear boundaries that help children make decisions safely and confidently.

Our curriculum is designed to empower pupils by encouraging them to ask questions about the topics they are learning. Teachers then tailor lessons to explore these questions, making learning engaging and relevant for every child.

We also teach pupils about their rights and personal freedoms, guiding them on how to exercise these responsibly. This is an important part of our lessons on E-Safety and Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education.

From choosing the level of challenge in their work, deciding how to record their learning, to taking part in a wide range of extra-curricular clubs and activities, our pupils have the freedom to make meaningful choices that help them grow as confident and independent learners.

Mutual Respect

Mutual Respect at South Bank Primary School

South Bank Primary is a caring and welcoming community where diversity is celebrated and tolerance is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that mutual respect is the foundation of a happy and supportive school family.

Our pupils have many opportunities to shine, whether in talent shows, competitions, or everyday school life. Respect for others is woven through our curriculum, including Religious Education (RE) lessons, PSHE assemblies, and class discussions.

In PSHE, we focus on building self-esteem and encouraging teamwork, helping children appreciate each other’s strengths and differences. Every classroom proudly displays a self-esteem board that celebrates the spirit of mutual respect and togetherness.

At South Bank, we work together to create an environment where every child feels valued, respected, and part of our school family.

Tolerance of Different Faiths & Beliefs

Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs at South Bank Primary School

At South Bank Primary School, we are committed to teaching and celebrating diversity in all its forms. Our curriculum and school events provide many opportunities for children to learn about different cultures, faiths, and beliefs.

We encourage pupils to share their own life experiences and cultural backgrounds while asking respectful questions about the beliefs of others. This helps them develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around them.

Our Religious Education (RE) lessons support this by exploring a wide range of religions and encouraging children to reflect on their own views in relation to these. Through this, we promote tolerance, respect, and meaningful reflection, helping our pupils grow into thoughtful and open-minded individuals.

The Curriculum

At South Bank Primary School we will actively challenge children, staff or parents who express opinions that are contrary to fundamental British values including extremists views. Staff regularly review the curriculum to ensure that it promotes the areas above. It also ensures that pupils are taught about key events and figures in history. Events during the year celebrate culturally diverse occasions and memorable events taking place in the country.