At James Knott Primary, we aim for our children to become valuable and fully rounded members of society who treat others with respect and tolerance, regardless of background. We promote the basic British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance for those with different faiths and beliefs in the following ways:

Democracy

We have a Student Council with two members in each class from Years One to Six led by our Head Boy and Head Girl. These children have election campaigns and are voted for by their class. The Council meets regularly and in the meetings the children’s views and ideas on a range of school issues are discussed. The council help make decisions. The council members feedback to their classes and also collect class views which they bring to their meetings. We also have House Captains and Deputy House Captains who are voted for by the school.

The Rule of Law

Children are taught from the beginning the Academy L.I.G.H.T values of: Love; Inclusivity; Goodness; Hope; Truth’ and are encouraged to use these, in the hope of inspiring them to become respectful, citizens. Pupils are taught the importance of and reasons behind these values, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when the ‘values’ are not kept. Each class agrees its own class rules at the beginning of the academic year. We have a variety of rewards when children keep the ‘values’ including golden time, raffle tickets and a house point system. These show children our values are special and in keeping them they will be rewarded.

Individual Liberty

Pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. Making choices is key part the way we want children to learn and of the Academy vision, which children learn about through assemblies and PHSE work. Through our work we discuss different choices that the children can make and encourage them to make the right choices. We look at Online safety as a key part of the Computing curriculum and the importance of making safe choices when online.

Mutual Respect

Mutual respect is at the heart of our values. We are an inclusive school where everyone is valued and has a contribution to make. Children learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. The children and staff work with other NCEA primary schools and with the local Church, local businesses and organisations, which develops their respect for others in the wider community.

Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

All different faiths and beliefs are explored and celebrated through collective worship, Religious Education sessions and a variety of visitors into school. The children are taught that people have different faiths and beliefs and that these should be accepted. Children within our school with different faiths are encouraged to share their practices and special celebrations. Our school also has a strong link with St John’s church and we have a regular visits from Sally Milner our Academy chaplain who regularly takes collective worship and works with the school worship leaders.