British Values
British Values (Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural Development)
Democracy
Each year begins with the election of new representatives for our school council, the Board of Backworth. Through this process, children learn about democracy and how their voices can contribute to positive change within our school community.
We make links to real-life politics, helping children to understand the main political parties and how the Government works. Depending on current events, pupils may study specific aspects of politics, such as local government elections. Children have opportunities to learn about democracy through visits from our local MP, Emma Foody, and through our celebration of Parliament Week, which includes focused PSHE lessons. We have also had the opportunity to visit the Houses of Parliament as part of a school trip.
Once established, the Board of Backworth meets weekly with an agreed agenda, supported by Mrs Huscroft. Prior to each meeting, agenda items are shared with classes to discuss. Class representatives then bring the views and suggestions of their peers to the meeting.
Any pupil or member of staff can request an item to be added to the agenda. Key areas of focus include school priorities, charitable initiatives and whole-school development.
Rule of Law
At Backworth Park Primary School, we are committed to preparing children to become positive and responsible members of society. An important part of this is helping pupils understand how society operates and why laws, rules and responsibilities are important.
At the start of each academic year, we place a strong emphasis on citizenship, school rules and behaviour expectations. Children learn about the role they play within society and how their actions can affect others.
The weekly Board of Backworth meeting provides an opportunity to discuss matters arising across the school, address wider issues and nominate pupils for the Board of Backworth Award, recognising those who have made an outstanding contribution to school life.
Daily assemblies set the tone for the day, reinforcing our high expectations and celebrating children's achievements and successes.
Respect and Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs
Children are encouraged to show respect for others and to understand that differences should be celebrated. Pupils learn that everyone is welcome and valued within our school community.
We have strong links with St Alban's Church, and Reverend Tim visits school each Tuesday to lead assemblies and teach children about Christian values and beliefs. Our broad and balanced RE curriculum ensures that children develop knowledge and understanding of a wide range of religions and worldviews.
We regularly welcome visitors and organisations into school to promote equality, diversity and inclusion. For example, we have welcomed Show Racism the Red Card and Diversity Role Models, who help children develop understanding, tolerance and respect for others. These messages are further reinforced through assemblies, PSHE lessons and classroom discussions.
Any incidents or complaints relating to discrimination, intolerance or a lack of respect for others are taken seriously and addressed promptly.
Developing Skills and Attitudes to Contribute Positively to Life in Modern Britain
Children are encouraged to value their school environment and understand the importance of responsibility, respect and looking after shared resources. They follow school rules and are reminded of these regularly through assemblies and classroom discussions.
Through the Board of Backworth, children have opportunities to share their views on issues that matter to them and contribute to school decision-making. This helps pupils understand democratic processes and the importance of having a voice.
Children learn about influential figures throughout history who have contributed to positive social change and are encouraged to consider how they can make a positive difference in their own communities. They are given many opportunities to learn about Great Britain and the wider world around them.
As a school, we celebrate Volunteers' Week, welcoming representatives from VODA North Tyneside to lead assemblies and share volunteering opportunities with children and families. The Board of Backworth also supports activities that benefit the wider community.
Older pupils are encouraged to support younger children during assemblies, playtimes and lunchtimes, helping to foster a caring and inclusive school environment.
Children learn about careers from Nursery onwards. They benefit from a wide-ranging careers programme, meeting visitors from a variety of professions and sectors, including the Armed Forces, the NHS and the Woodland Trust. Each class has a Careers Representative, and pupils regularly participate in careers-focused assemblies and activities.
All children are aware of their individual targets and are encouraged to reflect on their progress and take ownership of their learning.
A wide variety of extra-curricular activities promotes positive attitudes, teamwork and resilience. Children learn the value of healthy competition and how working together can strengthen communities.
Each year we participate in Anti-Bullying Week, Black History Month and Careers Week. We also acknowledge and celebrate a range of national awareness days throughout the year.
Cultural Influences
The Shiremoor Treat is celebrated both by local schools and within the local community. Held on the first weekend of July, this longstanding tradition was originally established by local miners as an annual family picnic and remains an important part of the area's heritage.
Children visit the River Tyne and learn about the industries that have shaped the region's history. They understand that they live in the North East of England and learn about local landmarks such as St Mary's Lighthouse and Tynemouth Priory. Through discussion and exploration of local traditions, children develop an understanding of what it means to be a Geordie.
Children also learn about the World Wars and commemorate Remembrance Day each year. They participate through art, research, discussion, poetry, music and reflection, both in school and at local remembrance events.
Artistic, Sporting and Cultural Opportunities
Each class takes part in regular educational visits to places of local interest, many of which have artistic, historical or cultural significance. Children enjoy visits to museums, galleries, theatres and sporting venues.
Our Art Lead plans a range of creative opportunities throughout the year, enabling children to appreciate, explore and create artwork using a variety of media and techniques.
The Music Lead organises opportunities for children to perform both within school and in the wider community. Children sing regularly and have opportunities to work with visiting musicians and participate in workshops and performances.
Our PE Lead coordinates sporting opportunities across the school. All children participate in both competitive and non-competitive sporting events throughout the year. We strive to provide opportunities for children to take part in as many sporting events as possible and organise visits to support local teams. Many children also become Sports Leaders, helping to organise activities and support younger pupils.
All teachers plan a rich and varied curriculum, ensuring that children benefit from a wide range of experiences that enhance their learning and personal development across all areas of school life.
Download and view Promoting Fundamental British Values as part of SMSC in schools, published by the Department for Education in November 2014.