St PetersCE Primary School
At St Peter’s, the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs are interwoven throughout our entire Personal Development curriculum and wider life of the school. They are not taught as a standalone topic or addressed through occasional events; they shape our curriculum, relationships, routines and expectations every day.
Our context makes this work particularly important. St Peter’s is a growing and increasingly diverse Church of England school, with a significant proportion of children joining us at different points in their primary education. We are proud of our multicultural community and see the different languages, cultures, faiths and experiences represented within our school as a considerable strength. Our vision underpins our commitment to ensuring that every child feels welcomed, valued and able to participate fully in school life.
Children learn about democracy through our School Parliament, pupil leadership roles, elections, pupil voice, house debates and regular opportunities to express and justify their views. They develop an understanding of the rule of law through clear school expectations, restorative conversations and learning about how laws protect individuals and communities. Individual liberty is promoted by teaching children to make informed choices, express themselves respectfully and understand their rights alongside their responsibilities.
Mutual respect and tolerance are developed through RE, relationships and health education, collective worship, literature, curriculum topics, visitors and engagement with our wider community. Children encounter a range of faiths, cultures, families and perspectives and are taught to discuss differences thoughtfully and respectfully. Prejudice, discrimination and language that undermines the dignity of others are always challenged.
Our talk-rich culture gives children regular opportunities to listen, question, debate and disagree respectfully. Through assemblies, public speaking, leadership responsibilities and the wider curriculum, children learn that their voice matters while also understanding their responsibility to listen to and respect the voices of others.
This provision supports our long-held ambition to develop good people who make a positive difference to their community. By the time children leave St Peter’s, we want them to understand these values, recognise why they matter and demonstrate them confidently in their relationships, decisions and contribution to modern Britain.
