British Values
Promoting British Values at Cumberland Infant School
The DfE have recently reinforced the need “to create and enforce a clear and rigorous expectation on all schools 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(2014). At Cumberland Infant School, these values are reinforced regularly.
The five main British Values are:
- Democracy
- The Rule of the Law
- Individual Liberty
- Mutual Respect
- Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs
Democracy
At Cumberland, every voice matters. We encourage all children to share their thoughts, ideas and opinions, and we teach them to listen carefully and respectfully to others. Children learn that everyone has the right to be heard and that their views are valued.
Democracy is embedded throughout school life. At the beginning of each school year, children work together with their class teacher to create expectations that help ensure a safe, happy and successful learning environment. These are reviewed regularly and adapted when needed.
Children have many opportunities to make choices and express their opinions through voting. For example, each year they suggest ideas for new class themes and class names before taking part in a democratic vote to choose their favourites. They also regularly vote on a range of classroom decisions, such as selecting books for story time or choosing activities.
Pupil voice is further promoted through our Ambassador Team. The team consists of four Year 2 children elected by their classmates and two Year 2 children nominated by the class teacher and Learning Support Assistant. Ambassadors meet regularly to discuss school matters, share ideas and represent the views of all pupils. Through these experiences, children develop an understanding of democracy and learn that their contributions can help bring about positive change within the school community.
This approach helps our children understand that democracy means everyone having a voice, listening to others, and making decisions together fairly.
The Rule of Law
The importance of laws and rules, whether they govern the classroom, the school, or the wider country, is consistently reinforced throughout school life , through our adaptive practise to ensure equity for all. Our strong school ethos and Learning Values are deeply embedded in everything we do and help children understand the importance of respect, responsibility, and making positive choices.
At the beginning of each academic year, children and their families sign a Responsible Use Agreement, reinforcing the importance of keeping themselves and others safe when using technology. In addition, pupils participate in regular online safety lessons, which help them understand their rights and responsibilities in the digital world.
Our restorative approach supports children in understanding the consequences of their actions. When difficulties arise, children are encouraged to reflect on what has happened, consider the impact their actions may have had on others, and work towards a positive resolution. This often includes natural and meaningful consequences that help children develop a secure understanding of right and wrong, fairness and justice.
Through assemblies, visits, and wider enrichment opportunities, we welcome members of the local community who help keep us safe. These include representatives from the Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) service, Coastguard, Fire and Rescue Service, and rail safety teams. They help children to understand the importance of rules, laws, and individual responsibilities within society.
This understanding is further developed through our Relationships, Health and Education (RHE) curriculum, particularly within the theme of Being Safe, where children learn how rules and laws help to protect individuals and communities and contribute to a safe and happy society.
Individual Liberty
At Cumberland, we are committed to ensuring that every child has a voice and understands that their views, opinions and ideas are valued and respected. We encourage children to develop confidence in expressing themselves and to recognise that they have the freedom to make choices and pursue their own aspirations.
Through our broad and engaging curriculum, as well as the wider opportunities we provide, we inspire children to discover their strengths, interests and ambitions. We support them in developing a strong sense of self and empower them to become active participants in their learning and personal development.
Our relational and restorative school culture fosters strong, positive relationships built on trust, respect and understanding. Children know that Cumberland is a safe and supportive environment where they can make informed choices, reflect on their decisions and discuss their thoughts and feelings with trusted adults.
Throughout their time at Cumberland, children are taught how to make healthy, responsible choices that support both their physical health and emotional wellbeing. This is achieved through our Relationships and Health Education (RHE) curriculum and the My Happy Mind programme, which equip pupils with the knowledge, skills and confidence to make positive decisions and lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
By promoting Individual Liberty, we help children to understand their rights and freedoms while recognising the importance of making choices responsibly and with respect for others.
Mutual Respect and Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
At Cumberland, We Care, Inspire and Succeed together as an inclusive community. We celebrate everybody's uniqueness and have created a culture where every child, family and member of staff is valued, respected and cared for. At Cumberland, care means respect.
The British Value of Mutual Respect is at the heart of our school community and is deeply embedded in our daily practice. We teach children to recognise and appreciate differences, listen to the views of others, show kindness and empathy, and treat everyone with dignity and consideration
This commitment is woven throughout our Learning Values, assemblies, Relationships, Health and Education (RHE) curriculum, Religious Education (RE) curriculum and the My Happy Mind programme. Children are encouraged to develop positive relationships, understand and manage their emotions, and demonstrate respect for themselves and others
Our collective worship within assemblies and RHE lessons provide opportunities for weekly reflection where tolerance and respect of our diverse school community which is made up of children and staff of a range of cultural and religious backgrounds are at the forefront of our discussions.
Through our carefully selected Cumberland Collection of books, as well as our library pupils encounter a diverse range of characters, families, cultures and experiences, helping them to develop understanding, inclusivity and appreciation of the world around them. We actively promote equality, challenge stereotypes and celebrate diversity so that all children feel a strong sense of belonging.
By nurturing a culture of mutual respect and tolerance, we empower our pupils to become compassionate, responsible citizens who understand the importance of treating others as they would wish to be treated themselves, through understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity.

