British values and the prevention strategy 

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."

Portway Junior School is committed to serving its community and surrounding areas. It recognises the multi-cultural, multi-faith and ever-changing nature of the United Kingdom, and therefore those it serves. It also understands the vital role it has in ensuring that groups or individuals within the school are not subjected to intimidation or radicalisation by those wishing to unduly, or illegally, influence them.

The school, as a ‘Community School’, accepts admissions from all those entitled to an education under British law, including pupils of all faiths or none. It follows the policies outlined by its governing body regarding equal opportunities, which guarantee that there will be no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar. It seeks to serve all. 

British Values Statement 

A key part of the government’s counter-terrorism strategy is called ‘Prevent’. The aim is to prevent radicalisation of any individual and to positively promote what it means to be British, in order to create a cohesive society that lives out British values, whatever the origins or ethnicity of the individuals. Read more about ‘Prevent’ here.

Being part of Britain 

As a school, we value and celebrate the diverse cultures of our community. Alongside this, we value and celebrate being part of Britain. In general terms, this means that we celebrate traditions, such as customs in the course of the year; for example, Remembrance Day, royal events, Children in Need, Comic Relief, Harvest Festival, Guy Fawkes night, General Elections and news items, Sports Day, Christmas plays and traditions, and more. Click here to see us remembering the fallen on Remembrance Day.  
 
Further, children learn about being part of Britain through our curriculum. Geographically, our pupils learn about the physical and locational elements of Britain, such as its capital cities and counties, its rivers and mountains, its make-up of countries, and where Britain is in relation to the rest of Europe and other countries in the world.

Historically, children learn about different periods in History, and how our British culture and way of life have been shaped by events in the past. This might also include inventions and discoveries, houses, or medicine.

How do we do our part in both preventing radicalisation and promoting British Values?

• Take great pride in developing our children’s Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural development.
  Ensure that our safeguarding practices are kept up-to-date, and our policy and training cover the different aspects of the ‘Prevent Strategy’.
• Help our pupils to think critically using curriculum opportunities.
• Ensure that pupils have a voice and opportunities to make decisions democratically.  
• Teach about multiple religions, and encourage visits and visitors to share with our pupils about different faiths.
• Share stories, images, events, music and expectations in assemblies that, with clarity and precision, promote the values expressed. These assemblies encourage us to support and value each other and promote British Values.
• Challenge and act strongly on any form of racism or prejudice, either by adults or children.
• Provide strong emotional and pastoral support, and look out for individuals or groups of children or adults who may be isolated.
• Develop annual links with local charities and arrange to support these as a school community.

We believe our school has a long tradition of being at the very heart of the local community.  We offer a happy and friendly atmosphere where children can grow to their full potential and become responsible and caring members of the community. 

If you would like paper copies of our British Values policy or Prevent Strategy, please contact the school office who will be happy to provide them for you.