The DfE have reinforced the need “to create and enforce a clear and rigorous expectation on all early years settings (Early Years Handbook August 2015) 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.
We are an inclusive setting and our ethos and curriculum enables children to be independent learners, to make choices and to build strong relationships with their peers and all adults. Our setting believes that children flourish best when their personal, social and emotional needs are met and where there are clear and developmentally appropriate expectations for their behaviour. We would challenge pupils, staff or parents who expressed opinions contrary to fundamental British values.
Democracy
We respect, listen to and act on children's and parent's voice. Children are involved in making class rules and they are expected to contribute and co-operate with them, taking into account the views of others.
The Rule of Law
We consistently reinforce our high expectations of children. Children are taught the value and reasons behind our expectations (rules), that they are there to protect us, that everyone has a responsibility and that there are consequences when rules are broken.
We aim to teach children to behave in socially acceptable ways and to understand the rights and needs of others. We use positive strategies to handle any conflict and praise and acknowledge desirable behaviours. We document all incidents of behaviour that is deemed in breach of this policy and the fundamental British Values principles. Incidents are monitored and preventative action taken where necessary.
Individual Liberty
At Alverton Woodland Nursery children are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As an early years provider we educate and provide boundaries for young children to make choices, to manage risks, through our provision of a safe environment and empowering teaching. Children are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are given opportunities to resolve conflicts effectively.
Mutual Respect
At Alverton Woodland Nursery we value all of our children and families. We celebrate our rich cultural and religious diversity and promote mutual respect. Children are modelled respect through caring, sharing and listening to others. Adults help children to understand how their actions and words affect others. All children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities are valued for their individuality and supported to achieve their best. Children are taught that life is not the same for everyone and we support charities such as 'Red Nose Day', 'Children in Need'. We have enjoyed celebrating the Queens Diamond Jubilee, the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
We aim to enhance children’s understanding of different faiths and beliefs by participating in a range of celebrations throughout the year. Children have the opportunity to dress-up in clothes and try different foods from other cultures and we encourage parents/carers to participate and support our multi-cultural events. We monitor all forms of bullying and harassment and actively promote courtesy and good manners towards all.
At Alverton Woodland Nursery, we make sure British Values is embedded in everything we do, is our determination to develop skills of empathy and tolerance to make everyone at our setting feel valued and respected.