British Values

At Pilgrim Primary we are very proud of our historical roots, being firmly rooted in Plymouth’s proudest achievement, of being the location from which the Pilgrim Fathers left England in search of freedom in the new world; an achievement celebrated on a plaque in our school ground.

In a school as diverse as ours, we recognise the importance, and responsibility of celebrating the country in which we live. At Pilgrim we want our children to appreciate what it is about Britain that makes it a great place to live, learn and grow. Through our carefully planned curriculum, including theme, RE, PSHE and assemblies, we encourage the values of;

Democracy
Rule of law
Mutual respect
Tolerance
Individual liberty

Mutual Respect:

Our school ethos and behaviour policy is based around the core values of mutual respect and a sense of responsibility for others.

Our school raises money for various charities throughout the year, and each year the children nominate charities close to their hearts such as Guide dogs, St Luke’s Hospice and the British Heart Foundation.

The Rule of Law:

The importance of laws and rules are consistently reinforced. Our system for behaviour is aligned to an agreed set of codes and if children are given verbal warnings this is always set against the agreed school behaviour code. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind rules, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when rules are broken. We praise the children informally, individually, during group work, in front of the whole class and the whole school. Children are rewarded not only for achievement in curriculum areas but for positive behaviour such as kindness, helpfulness, team work and for demonstrating initiative. Rewards are given in the form of stickers, house points and certificates. Children’s achievements are also recognised during weekly assemblies.

Democracy:

Democracy is an important value at our school. Pupils have the opportunity to have their voices heard through a variety of opportunities, the most vocal of these being the School Council. We meet on a regular basis, and have an agenda, as well as giving children opportunity to raise any issues they have from their peers. This includes voting to support a school charity each year and making decisions about organizing fund raising events. The children are given regular opportunities to debate ideas and reflect their thoughts about current events and news.

We are very proud of our involvement in local issues, and members of our School Council have been leaders within the Plymouth City Youth Council on a number of occasions. Our children are articulate and passionate, understanding the responsibility we all have to make decisions that benefit our communities.

Individual Liberty:

Pupils are actively encouraged to make choices at our school, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we provide boundaries for our children to make choices safely, through the provision of a safe environment and planned curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to think independently and feel that they are able to express their ideas with confidence and that these are valued. At the same time they are encouraged to be sensitive to the needs of others and be supportive of their peers and younger members of the school community.

Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs:

This is achieved through enhancing pupils’ understanding of their place in a culturally diverse society. Our RE curriculum focuses on the world religions of Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Judaism, while touching on elements of Humanism and Buddhism. We have an annual Diversity Day, as well as other world religious and cultural celebrations highlighted through assemblies.

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Thoughtfulness

Ambition

Respect

Collaboration

Responsibility

Endeavour