Promoting British Values @The Nursery
The DfE have recently reinforced the need “to create and enforce a clear and rigorous expectation on all schools and nurseries 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.”
The government set out its definition of British values in the 2011 Prevent Strategy, and these values have been reiterated by the Prime Minister this year. At The Nursery these values are reinforced regularly and in the following ways:
Democracy:
We listen to children’s and parent’s voice. Our nursery behaviour policy is clear that children are expected to contribute and co-operate, taking into account the views of others and following our Golden Rules.
The Rule of Law:
We consistently reinforce our high expectations of children. Children are taught the value and reasons behind our expectations (rules) that they are there to protect us, that everyone has a responsibility and that there are consequences when rules are broken.
Individual Liberty:
Within the nursery children are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a nursery we educate and provide boundaries for young children to make choices safely, through our provision of a safe environment and empowering teaching. Children are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms.
Mutual Respect:
Part of our nursery ethos and behaviour policy has revolved around Golden Rules such as ‘Respect’, and children are modelled this by caring, sharing and listening to others. Staff helps children to understand how to respect by talking about how actions/words can affect others.
Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs:
We aim to enhance children’s understanding of different faiths and beliefs by participating in a range of celebrations throughout the year as well as speaking other languages such as Italian, Spanish, German, French, and Polish. Children have the opportunity to dress-up in clothes and try different foods from other cultures and we encourage parents/carers to participate and support our multi-cultural events.