Fundamental British Values

Whitcliffe Mount embraces the Department for Education’s five-part definition of the Fundamental British Values:

• Democracy
• The rule of law
• Individual liberty
• Mutual respect
• Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

Students encounter these principles throughout everyday school. Listed below are some examples of how we promote these values in our school community:

Democracy

Our leadership student academy and student council play a major role in our school. They are elected by students and contribute to school improvement through authentic and meaningful meetings, opportunities and activities.

Student voice feedback and questionnaires are conducted throughout the year. We believe that the active participation of our students will lead to a more sophisticated understanding of democracy in the future.

The Rule of Law

Our students will face rules and laws throughout their entire lives. We want our students to understand that whether these laws govern the class, the school, the local community or the country, they are set for good reasons and must be adhered to. The importance of rules are consistently reinforced throughout school.

Individual Liberty

Whitcliffe Mount is a safe and secure environment where choices and freedoms are encouraged. Throughout curriculum, extra curricular and enrichment activities we encourage students to reflect and make choices.

We offer a range of enrichment activities which students have the freedom to choose from, based on their interests. Through PACE and active learning weeks, we educate students in their rights and personal freedoms as well as supporting them in recognising how to exercise these freedoms safely.

Mutual Respect

Respect is paramount as a citizen of the UK and the world. Students learn to treat each other and staff with great respect as this is our central ethos. Respecting the rights of others, including their right to their own opinions is fundamental to learning.

Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

We are proud to offer a culturally rich and diverse curriculum in which all major religions are studied and respected, including visits to worship houses in Year 7. We believe that tolerance is gained through knowledge and understanding. Through our curriculum, our ‘We Are Whitcliffe Skills’ and the routines of our daily school life, we strive to demonstrate tolerance and help students to become knowledgeable and responsible British citizens. Religious Studies is currently compulsory through Key Stage 3 & 4.