British Values at Malmesbury School
At Malmesbury School, we are committed to promoting the British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. These values are central to our vision of developing happy, caring and excellent young people who are prepared to play a positive role in modern British society.
British Values are woven throughout school life and are taught through our Personal Development curriculum, assemblies, tutor programme, subject lessons, enrichment activities and pastoral support systems. We believe that these values are not an additional aspect of education, but are fundamental to creating an inclusive, safe and respectful school community where every student can thrive.
Democracy
Students are encouraged to develop their voice and participate actively in school life. Opportunities include involvement in House Councils, student leadership roles, student voice activities, consultations and surveys. Students learn about democracy through the curriculum and engage with local and national democratic processes through activities such as Parliament Week, mock elections and visits from political representatives.
The Rule of Law
We help students understand the importance of rules, laws and responsibilities in creating a safe and successful community. Our behaviour systems, restorative approaches and pastoral support encourage students to take responsibility for their actions and understand the consequences of their choices. Students also learn about the role of the law through the curriculum, safeguarding education and engagement with external agencies, including the police.
Individual Liberty
We encourage students to be confident, independent learners who can make informed and responsible choices. Through our curriculum, careers programme, enrichment opportunities and pastoral support, students develop the knowledge, skills and resilience needed to make decisions that positively influence their future. We promote a culture where students feel safe to express themselves while understanding their responsibilities to others.
Mutual Respect
Respect is one of the foundations of our school culture. Positive relationships between students, staff and the wider community are built on kindness, empathy and understanding. Through daily interactions, our behaviour expectations, anti-bullying work and restorative practices, students learn the importance of treating others with dignity and respect.
Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs
Malmesbury School celebrates diversity and promotes understanding of different cultures, faiths, beliefs and backgrounds. Through our curriculum, assemblies, external speakers, community links, Interfaith Week and wider personal development programme, students are encouraged to value difference, challenge prejudice and appreciate the contribution that diversity makes to society. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong and where discrimination is actively challenged.
British Values in Everyday School Life
Students will see British Values in action through:
- Student leadership opportunities and House Councils
- Personal Development lessons covering citizenship, personal development and current affairs
- Assemblies focused on personal development, community and citizenship
- Student voice activities and consultation processes
- Charity fundraising and community engagement
- Careers education and preparation for life in modern Britain
- Anti-bullying and safeguarding education
- Curriculum opportunities that promote debate, critical thinking and understanding of different perspectives
- Visits, speakers and enrichment opportunities that broaden students’ understanding of the wider world.
At Malmesbury School, British Values help shape the character of our students and underpin our commitment to developing responsible, respectful and active citizens who are ready to contribute positively to their communities and wider society.