At Tickhill St Mary’s, British Values are embedded deeply within our curriculum and school life, aligned with our Christian ethos and our school values, ‘The St Mary’s Way’: Resilient, Curious, Respectful, Accountable, and Active members of our community. We break British Values down into four key areas and ensure children understand and live these values every day.

Democracy

We believe that every child’s voice matters. Children are taught to listen respectfully to others’ ideas and opinions, supported by classroom practises that encourage attentive listening and thoughtful responses. Our school council representatives are democratically elected by their classmates and meet weekly to discuss school, local, national, and global issues. This gives children real opportunities to influence how our school is run. Throughout the year, children vote on various matters, from supporting local charities to selecting songs for singing assemblies. We foster children’s confidence to express their opinions through debates, assemblies, and curriculum activities.

Rule of Law

Our behaviour policy is clear and consistent, teaching children about expectations for conduct both inside and outside the classroom. We believe behaviour is taught, not caught, and adults model respectful and responsible behaviour at all times. Through our curriculum and daily school life, children learn the importance of rules and laws in keeping everyone safe and ensuring fairness. We also benefit from visits by local Police and Fire and Rescue services, which help reinforce these messages and give children a real understanding of the role of law in society.

Individual Liberty

We encourage children to make choices about their learning and personal development within a safe and supportive environment. Children assess their own progress, set personal challenges, and are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones to build resilience and motivation. Our wide range of extra-curricular activities and pupil leadership roles—including school librarians, school council members, and anti-bullying ambassadors—offer children opportunities to develop independence and confidence. Through our PSHE curriculum (Jigsaw) and safeguarding education, children learn about their rights and responsibilities.

Mutual Respect and Tolerance

Respect is at the heart of our vision and values. We actively teach children to respect themselves, others, and the diverse world around them. Our Religious Education curriculum and collective worship celebrate different faiths and beliefs, fostering an inclusive community where all are valued. Children learn about equality, diversity, and the importance of tolerance through SMSC education and our broad curriculum. We also have strong links with St Mary’s Church and welcome visitors from various faiths to share their traditions and beliefs, enriching children’s understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity.

At Tickhill St Mary’s, our commitment to British Values supports our overarching vision that every child is utterly precious and should live life in all its fullness (John 10:10). Through these values, we prepare our children to be thoughtful, responsible, and active citizens in school, their local community, and wider British society.