Promoting British Values

Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through the School Council. The School Council meets at least once every half term and the school council representatives from each Form Group can bring issues raised during form time for discussion. The Council are often required to consider school wide issues such as; the School Code of Conduct and the Anti-Bullying Policy. All responses are fed back to the Headteacher who ensures appropriate adjustments are made where agreed and reasoning for non-action is explained. This response from the Headteacher is then taken back to the School Council.

The importance of laws or rules whether they be those that govern the class, the school - known as 'The BGGS Way' - or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout the school day, Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind laws and rules, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws or rules are broken – as identified in the Behaviour Pyramid - are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Police and Fire Service are regular parts of our calendar and help reinforce this message. 

Within school, pupils are actively encouraged to make good choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make choices safely, through of provision of a safe environment and empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely, for example through our E-Safety and PSHE lessons. Whether it be through choice of challenge, or of participation in our numerous extra-curricular clubs and opportunities, pupils are given the freedom to make choices. 

An important aspect of our school ethos and Behaviour for Learning policy, 'The BGGS Way', has revolved around demonstrating respect for the rights of others as well as appreciating alternative opinions, backgrounds and cultures. The school ethos in principle and the Behaviour for Learning policy in practice both endorse this principle. 

This is achieved through enhancing pupils understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving them opportunities to experience such diversity. Assemblies are delivered and discussions about prejudice and prejudice-based bullying are encouraged across the curriculum wherever the opportunity presents itself but are especially supported by learning in RE and PSHE.