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Dear Parents
I hope everyone had a fantastic time over the extended Bank Holiday weekend. For those who celebrated Orthodox Easter, Christos anesti or Khristos voskres!
As a school, we are required to actively 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, which serve as guiding principles for individuals across the UK. These values, as outlined by the Government, hold immense significance in shaping our pupils’ understanding of citizenship and preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that await beyond our school gates.
British values are the cornerstone of a thriving and inclusive society, embodying principles that uphold harmony and progress for all. These fundamental values encompass:
- Democracy: Central to British values is the bedrock belief in democracy, where freedom and equality reign supreme. It’s about amplifying every voice and ensuring that each individual plays a vital role in shaping our shared future.
- The Rule of Law: At the heart of British society lies the principle of the rule of law, where fairness and justice prevail. It’s about establishing a robust framework of rules and regulations that safeguard the rights and wellbeing of every member of our community.
- Individual Liberty: Integral to British values is the concept of individual liberty, where every person has the freedom to live authentically and pursue their aspirations. It’s about empowering individuals to express themselves, make choices aligned with their beliefs and enjoy personal freedoms while respecting the rights of others.
- Respect and Tolerance: British values celebrate diversity and affirm the inherent worth of every individual. Respect and tolerance serve as the foundation of a cohesive society, where differences in beliefs, backgrounds and identities are not merely accepted but celebrated.
In embracing these core values, we uphold the essence of a vibrant and inclusive society, where unity in diversity thrives, and every individual has the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life.
It’s not enough to merely promote these values; we weave them into the girls’ educational experience so that they learn to play a confident, informed role in society, have a fully developed values system, and are able to interact with other people in a positive way. Here are some examples of how we do this at school:
- Engaging in Conversations: By fostering dialogue and active listening, we empower the girls to learn from the perspectives of others.
- Roles of Responsibility: Through active participation in elections and initiatives, the girls ensure their voices are heard, driving positive change within our school community.
- School Trips: Exploring various cultural sites and places of worship not only broadens horizons but also cultivates a deep appreciation for diversity.
- Staying Informed: Encouraging the girls to keep abreast of current events through programmes such as Newsround and newspapers such as First News expands their knowledge and understanding of the world around us.
We firmly believe that by instilling these values in our pupils, we are providing them with the essential tools to navigate the complexities of society with empathy, integrity and respect.
In a recent assembly, Mrs Hughes illustrated the concept of democracy using a relatable example: the voting process in the popular television show Strictly Come Dancing. She explained how public involvement through voting adds excitement and significance to the show, underscoring the importance of every vote. Transitioning to the upcoming London Mayoral elections, she emphasised the pivotal role of voting in shaping our communities. She also highlighted the global significance of elections, noting the numerous national elections taking place in 2024.
Delving into the history of voting rights in the UK, we paid homage to the tireless efforts of suffragists and suffragettes in securing women’s right to vote. We commemorated key milestones, such as the 1832 Reform Act and the eventual granting of equal voting rights to men and women over the age of 21 in 1928.
Throughout the assembly, the value of democracy and the responsibility associated with exercising the right to vote was reiterated. Thoughtful consideration of voting choices was encouraged and concluded with a moment of reflection, expressing gratitude for the freedoms we enjoy in the UK while acknowledging the ongoing struggles for democracy worldwide.
I am planning on doing another assembly to delve deeper into the four fundamental British values for the girls. Additionally, we’ll focus on fostering a sense of responsibility akin to Responsibility Badger and cultivating empathy reminiscent of Empathy Rabbit.
With warm wishes
Miss Dina Hamalis
Head of the Junior School
