Democracy is an important value at our school. Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through our class and school learner forums. There are also annual elections for Head Boy and Head Girl as well as House Captain positions. Year 6 have recently enjoyed taking part in parliament week, which included a visit from Amanda Milling, the MP for Cannock Chase.
The importance of laws and rules, whether they are those that govern the class, the academy or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout regular school days. Our academy rules of Ready Respectful and Safe are known by all staff and children. The expectation to walk with pride around the academy is championed by children, who will challenge members of staff who do not model this! Visits from and to authorities such as the police and fire service are regular parts of our calendar and help reinforce this message. Year 6 take part in the Police cadets programme.
Pupils are actively encouraged to make choices at our school, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As an academy we provide boundaries for our children to make choices safely, through the provision of a safe environment and planned curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our e-Safety teaching and PSHE lessons. We are very proud to be a UNICEF Rights Respecting School and ensure that all children and parents are aware of the UN Rights of the Child.
Part of our school ethos and behaviour policy are based around core Christian values such as compassion, peace, humility, forgiveness and friendship. Whole-academy worships are based on ‘Roots and Fruits’ and the values we hold are central to how we expect everyone to go about their life at our academy. Children and adults alike, including visitors, are challenged if they are disrespectful in any way. Values are highly visible around the school and can be seen in posters, displays and as part of our agreed policies.
Votes for Schools raises local and global issues in a structured way, offering insight for our pupils into the lives of others.
This is achieved through enhancing pupils’ understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity in our local community which is by large white British. The introduction of the No Outsiders in our School programme supports discussions involving prejudices and prejudice-based bullying.
The teaching of RE focusses on Christianity, Hinduism and Islam and other major faiths are also covered in less depth. Year 5 and 6 have the opportunity to visit a Mandir and a Mosque, taking part in the Derby Faith Trail.
