The DfE have 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 were reiterated in 2014.

At Collis Primary School these values are taught, reinforced and celebrated in an age appropriate way, through our broad, balanced and enriched curriculum, collective worship, our structures and systems, our commitment to the importance of pupil voice and leadership and as an intrinsic part of our ethos and values.

We actively challenge pupils, staff or parents expressing opinions contrary to fundamental British Values, including ‘extremist’ views.

DEMOCRACY

Children, parents and staff have many opportunities for their voices to be heard at Collis Primary School. Democracy is central to how we operate.

School Council

The election of the School Council members reflects our British electoral system and demonstrates democracy in action: candidates make speeches, pupils consider characteristics important for an elected representative and pupils vote in secret. The School Council meets regularly to discuss issues raised by the different classes.

Pupil Parliament

The school also participates fully in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames Pupil Parliament initiative whereby Year 6 pupils ‘pitch’ for election by their year group as Pupil Parliament representatives. Each year the newly-elected girl and boy spend a day at York House in Twickenham competing against the other Richmond schools in an attempt to become the Pupil Mayor and Pupil Deputy of Richmond-upon-Thames.

Junior Safety Officers

Again, in conjunction with the London Borough of Richmond-upon-Thames, the school participates very fully in the programme of events designed to be carried out by Junior Safety Officers. These are pupils in Year 5 who have successfully ‘pitched’ and been voted into office by their year group.

The JSOs attend an initiation event in Twickenham and are tasked with a series of responsibilities, including the provision of school assemblies with a safety theme.

Curriculum

Through our curriculum children are taught about, and are encouraged to respect, public institutions and services.

Pupil Voice

Pupil voice is valued, encouraged and celebrated. Pupils` views and opinions are sought through discussion groups, questionnaires and focus groups. For example children nominate various charities for their charity cake sale and for the schools summer charity fundraising event.

Pupils are always listened to by adults and are taught to listen carefully and with concern to each other, respecting the right of every individual to have their opinions and voices heard. We encourage pupils to take ownership of not only their school but also of their own learning and progress. This encourages a heightened sense of both personal and social responsibility and is demonstrated on a daily basis by our pupils

Uniformed Organisations

The school is very proud that some of its pupils choose to attend a variety of uniformed organisations in the local area such as Beavers, Cubs and Scouts, Rainbow Brownies, Brownies, Girl Guides and the Sea Scouts. We welcome members of different services to meet and talk with the children about their work.

THE RULE OF LAW

The importance of laws, whether they are those that govern the class, the school, or the country, is consistently reinforced at Collis Primary School through assemblies and our curriculum, and through high expectations demonstrated and modelled by staff and other pupils.

Pupils are taught from an early age about the expectations of the school. A positive behaviour scheme is in place within the school and pupils are encouraged to reflect on their behaviour and helped to make appropriate choices. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind rules and laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Community Police and local Fire Officer help to reinforce these important messages.

INDIVIDUAL LIBERTY

We invest of lot of time in generating a positive attitude in school, so children are in a safe environment, where choices and freedoms are encouraged. In lessons we encourage children to work on the task which will challenge them, giving them more freedom to determine their own learning. We offer a range of clubs, which pupils have the freedom to choose, based on their interests. Through safety e-safety, philosophy and PSHE sessions, we educate children on their rights and personal freedoms, as well as support them in recognising how to exercise these freedoms safely.

MUTUAL RESPECT

Mutual respect is at the heart of our values. From the outset, our pupils learn that their behaviour can have an effect on their own rights and well-being and those of others. All members of the school community, whether they are an adult or a child, are expected to treat each other with respect.

TOLERANCE OF THOSE OF DIFFERENT FAITHS AND BELIEFS

We offer a culturally rich and diverse curriculum, in which all major religions are studies and respected. Parents and leaders of different faiths are welcomed to the school to share their beliefs, we also visit different places of worship. We strongly believe that tolerance is gained through knowledge and understanding and, through our curriculum and the routines of our daily school life, we strive to demonstrate tolerance and help children to become knowledgeable and understanding citizens, who can build a better Britain for the future.

Empowering Future Citizens: A Lesson in Democracy - 15th March 2024

On 15th March 2024, ex-parent Sarah Ioannou graced our assembly, delivering a compelling talk on democracy, voting, and civic engagement. With clarity and passion, she demystified the voting process, emphasised British values, and highlighted the importance of participation in shaping our society's future.

Sarah's presentation bridged the gap between theory and practice, linking the mechanics of voting to our school council, thereby empowering our children to see themselves as agents of change within their own community.

Pupil Parliament Day - 7th March 2024

On 7th March 2024, Shanaya (6SW) and Theo (6D) went to Strawberry Hill House and represented Collis Primary School at the Richmond upon Thames Pupil Parliament Day. They were elected to the Pupil Parliament in Year 5.

At Strawberry Hill House, they learned about the history of Horace Walpole and his famous gothic books. As well as being given a tour around the house, they learned about a famous suffragette called Kitty. To end the trip, they took part in a debate relating to whether or not meat should stop being consumed. Overall, it was an educational experience and enabled Shanaya and Theo to meet new friends and enjoy debating an interesting topic.

Remembrance Day Assembly - 10th November 2023

In a tribute at Collis Primary School, our Remembrance Day Assembly on November 10th 2023 united us to honour the sacrifices made for our freedom. Against a backdrop of poppies, we shared stories about why we wear these red flowers. A big thank you to Pearl and Des from the Teddington British Legion, who shared their wisdom with us.

We were also treated to a special musical performance during the assembly, as Amy from Year 6, accompanied by her mother, played two moving pieces that touched our hearts.