British Values in UK Education

British values are described as shared principles that underpin public life and social expectations. Fundamental British Values are used as part of the efforts to strengthen social cohesion and counter extremism, including through the Prevent strategy.

The four Fundamental British Values are:

Democracy – people can participate in decision-making and express their views through voting and other democratic processes.
The Rule of Law – everyone is subject to the law, which promotes fairness, safety, and order.
Individual Liberty – individuals have the freedom to make choices and express their beliefs within the boundaries of the law.
Mutual Respect and Tolerance – people should respect others and accept differences in faith, belief, culture, and lifestyle.

British Values in Schools

Schools promote these values through:

Activities embedded in our curriculum across a broad subject range.
Curriculum subjects such as Citizenship, Religious Education (RE), and PSHE.
Assemblies and a positive school ethos.
Student councils and other pupil voice activities.
Behaviour policies that reinforce fairness and accountability.
Cultural and interfaith events.
Opportunities for discussion and critical thinking about contemporary issues.

British Values are closely linked to SMSC development:

Spiritual: reflection, creativity, and understanding beliefs.
Moral: recognising right and wrong and understanding consequences.
Social: cooperation, participation, and conflict resolution.
Cultural: appreciation of diversity, heritage, and different cultural influences.

Overall, British Values and SMSC education help prepare pupils to participate positively in a diverse, inclusive, and democratic society.