St Mary's Catholic Primary School

British Values

“Let your speech always be gracious”

Colossians 4:6

Democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance

Living our Catholic mission

At St Mary’s, we believe that every person is made and loved by God. Our Catholic ethos supports respect for others, thoughtful choices and participation in our wider community.

We promote democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of people with different faiths and beliefs.

Our mission is to love God above all things by learning together, loving ourselves, loving each other, loving all people and loving life itself, constantly striving for excellence worthy of our God-given gifts.

Democracy

Children learn that their voices matter and that decisions involve listening to others. Each class elects two school councillors, who represent pupils’ ideas at School Council meetings.

History lessons, visits and discussions help children understand democracy beyond school. Pupil roles, including school councillors, head pupils and prefects, provide opportunities to contribute and serve the community.

We go through a democratic process to vote in our school representatives.

Mutual respect

Respect is at the heart of our mission: loving ourselves and loving others. Children learn to listen, value different experiences and recognise the effect of their words and actions.

Our class charters, RE and RHE/PSHE learning help pupils understand their rights and the rights of others. Children are encouraged to tell a trusted adult about discrimination or unkind behaviour. We celebrate effort and achievement while recognising and supporting individual needs.

The rule of law

Children learn why rules and laws matter, how they help protect people and why they should be applied fairly. Our behaviour expectations and class rules help pupils understand how their actions affect the community.

Pupils contribute to class rules and charters and learn about the responsibilities that come with living and learning together.

Individual liberty

Children are supported to make informed, age-appropriate choices within a safe environment. They learn about personal responsibility, their rights and how to seek help.

Online-safety learning helps pupils use technology thoughtfully. Opportunities in lessons, clubs, sport, music, art and educational visits encourage children to explore their interests, develop confidence and broaden their aspirations.

Different faiths and beliefs

Children learn to respect people of different faiths and beliefs, including people who have no religious belief. Differences should never be a reason for prejudice or discrimination.

RE, visits to places of worship and links with other schools help pupils learn about other communities. Families from different faith and cultural backgrounds share their experiences, and children learn to ask thoughtful questions and listen respectfully.

We challenge prejudice and racist behaviour and help children understand how to seek support.