Democracy

Democracy is explored in the curriculum through PSHE schemes of work in Year 8 and the wider context of democracy is studied in History. The school has an active ‘Student Council’ with students nominating their representatives and meeting on a half termly basis to share student voice and actively improve the student experience within the school. Students are also encouraged to take part in the Bristol Youth Elections to appoint student councillors. We engage in national politics and host local MP visits where possible.

The Rule of Law

The importance of laws whether they are those that govern the class, the school or the country is consistently reinforced throughout the school community. Pupils are taught the value and reason behind laws; that they govern and protect us; the responsibility this involves; the consequences when laws are broken; and how to distinguish between right and wrong. In the same way, the school’s Rewards and Sanctions policy is applied fairly and without prejudice. 

Individual Liberty

Within our community, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. Our pupils are taught to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised how to exercise these safely both in the context of school and the law of the land and exploring issues around individual liberty. We check our progress as a community through a student diversity group which reports back to the Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion group, the Senior Leadership Team and Governors. 

Mutual Respect

Our community has three Core Values:

1. Kindness
2. Courage
3. Hope

These are displayed around the school and taught in collective worship. Our rewards system and behaviour policy is designed with these values in mind. The result is a respect and warmth between all in the community whether adult or student.

Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

Our core value of Kindness takes us beyond ‘tolerance’. We seek to understand each other; to embrace and celebrate our differences in a culturally rich and diverse school, ensuring unity is not compromised. The school is based on a Christian ethos but we welcome students of all faiths and none through exploring religions and philosophies in REP, through enabling access to prayer rooms and carefully planned threads of study in PSHE and wider curricula.