At Oreston Community Academy, we are fully committed to promoting and celebrating British Values. We believe that developing children’s understanding of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs is an important part of preparing them for life in modern Britain.

British Values are woven throughout school life. They are promoted through our Oreston Values, curriculum, PSHE and RSE, collective worship and enrichment opportunities, as well as through our everyday interactions with children, each other and the wider community. Opportunities to explore these values also arise across the wider curriculum and through our engagement with current affairs, including our weekly Picture News discussions.

We recognise that the positive relationships we build within our school community help children to develop the confidence, empathy, respect and responsibility needed to become active and successful citizens.

Children as Active Citizens

We believe it is important that our children have opportunities to make a positive contribution to their school and wider community. Throughout the year, children are encouraged to support causes that are important to them, develop leadership skills and understand the difference they can make.

We regularly take part in fundraising for external charities and causes, as well as supporting initiatives within our own school. We are particularly proud when children take the initiative to organise their own activities or find creative ways to support others.

Pupil Voice and Leadership

Our Pupil Voice Representatives are elected democratically, giving children the opportunity to experience democracy in action and to have their opinions heard. We encourage all children to contribute to the everyday life of our school and to understand that their voice matters.

There are many opportunities for children to take on responsibility and develop leadership skills, including:

• Pupil Voice groups and representatives
• Play Leaders
• Library Monitors
• Waiters and Waitresses

Through these experiences, we aim to empower our children to have a voice, take responsibility, respect others and make a positive difference within our school and the wider community.