1. Policy statement
The fundamental British values respect:
- Democracy
- Rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Mutual respect and tolerance of other faiths
Through its SMSC (spiritual, moral, social and cultural) programme Ashbourne is committed to promoting and upholding the fundamental British values. The college has for many years welcomed students from around the world and established a strong ethos of mutual respect for all races, cultures and religious faiths represented among its student body. In particular, students must understand that, whilst recognising that there are differing views on what is right and what is wrong, everyone is subject to the law of the land.
2. Promoting and upholding British Values
The SMSC programme aims to develop:
- Self-knowledge, self-esteem and self confidence among its students
- The capacity to distinguish between right and wrong and a respect for the civil and criminal law
- Responsibility for their behaviour and an understanding of how they contribute to the wider community
- A broad knowledge and respect for public institutions. In particular they should understand the difference between the executive and judiciary. They should be aware that institutions such as the police and army may be held to account by Parliament whereas the judiciary is independent
- A respect for their own and other cultures
- A will to participate in the democratic process and an understanding of how citizens contribute to it
- An appreciation that living under the rule of law is essential for the well-being and safety of all citizens.
- An understanding that the freedom to choose a faith is protected by law
- Tolerance of other faiths and cultures as well as the duty to combat discrimination
2.1 Further opportunities to promote British values
- Assuring the presentation of political views is balanced regardless of whether this arises inside or outside the classroom
- Through the student council
- Through our programme of PSHEE at GCSE and A level personal tutor sessions
- Ensuring consistency and transparency whilst enforcing college rules and that such rules are applied fairly
- When dealing with behavioural issues, ensuring that there is a clear distinction between right and wrong
- In dealing with both colleagues and students, teachers should act as role models in promoting good behaviour and respect for British values
