British Values

British Values Policy

The Independent Grammar School: Durham is committed to serving the community in which it finds itself and of which it is proud to be a part. We recognise the rich, multi-cultural, multi-faith and constantly changing nature of life in modern Britain. Whilst we are proud of our broad, inclusive and informal Christian ethos, we greatly value those of other faith backgrounds and will be delighted to welcome as many as possible into our school community.

We deplore any kind of prejudice, discrimination or inequality in the treatment of others, believing that all deserve dignity and respect. We know how vital our role as a school is in ensuring that groups or individuals within the school are not subjected to intimidation or radicalisation by those wishing to unduly, or illegally, influence them. We therefore follow equal opportunities guidance which helps to ensure that there will be no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar.

The Independent Grammar School: Durham is dedicated to preparing students for their adult life beyond the formal examined curriculum and to ensuring that we promote and reinforce British values to all our students. The Independent School Standards require us to actively promote each of the

Fundamental British Values (FBV). The four values are:

•  Democracy

•  The rule of law

•  Individual liberty

•  Mutual respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

These values are consistent with, and indeed spring from, traditional Christianity and are therefore reflected in our school’s values – Courage, Achievement, Respect and Enjoyment. We will strive to be a school in which British Values are lived out and whose pupils can discuss and articulate them with clarity and sensitivity. We will use our curriculum and wider school life to secure such outcomes for students.

How we promote each value

Democracy

Pupils learn how citizens can influence decisions, including through elections and Parliament. Through discussion, votes and elected School Council representatives, they practise listening to others, explaining their views and accepting a fair decision. When a mock election or vote is held, teachers explain how it relates to democratic decision-making and its limits.

The rule of law

Pupils learn why civil and criminal law in England protects people and how rules are made, applied and challenged. They consider the distinct roles of Parliament, government, police and independent courts as their age allows. School rules are used to illustrate fairness and responsibility, while teachers distinguish those rules from the law of the land.

Individual liberty

Pupils are encouraged to make informed choices, express views, take responsibility and understand that their freedoms are exercised within the law and with regard for the rights and safety of others. Age-appropriate teaching includes freedom of thought, conscience, religion and belief.

Mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.

Pupils learn about and encounter a range of faiths and beliefs, including people who have no religious practices or who are no longer members of a faith. They learn that freedom of belief is protected by law and that disagreement can be expressed respectfully. Prejudice, discriminatory language and behaviour contrary to these values are challenged through teaching and the Behaviour and Anti-Bullying policies.

Discussion and debate remain welcome.

Assemblies are a key part of every school day at The Independent Grammar School: Durham and an important forum for educating children in British Values. All assembly programmes will be clearly colour-coded so that British Values, and other, themes are brought out in as many topics as possible.

Every child will have regular teaching in which British Values are thoroughly discussed and taught. Their understanding, and the impact on behaviour and attitudes, will be regularly monitored by the Principal and the Board. A lesson or activity is not enough on its own: teachers will explain the value it illustrates and help pupils apply it.

All staff and Directors will complete appropriate PREVENT training, so that they are constantly alert to the dangers of extremist behaviour. Students will be actively encouraged to share their faith and beliefs within school whilst being cognisant of the importance of understanding how vital it is to be tolerant of others’ views.

We are proud of the diversity of pupils at the school, from a range of cultures, faiths and nations. We believe this helps our pupils to recognise differences, understand others and develop tolerance and respect.

We are aware of the risk of vague claims in the area of FBVs. To ensure that everyone in school takes this area seriously, the Principal will ensure that pupils can identify and explain the four values in ways appropriate to their age and ability. For pupils with SEND, staff will adapt teaching and the way understanding is demonstrated rather than simply assume that a pupil cannot participate. Class teachers are tasked with ensuring this for children in their form. The Principal and other senior staff will visit classes, speak with pupils and look at work and school activities to check that each value is understood and promoted in practice.

Many aspects of the FBVs relate to the protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. Pupils in the senior years (Year 7 upwards) will be taught about all nine protected characteristics in a balanced and age-appropriate way, including the legal context where it matters. Again, the Principal and other senior staff will regularly visit classes to discuss and check understanding. This work complements the distinct requirement to promote respect for people with protected characteristics.

Teachers will identify where each value is taught and promoted in schemes of work, assemblies, PSHE, RE and wider activities. Leaders will review this evidence, pupil discussion and relevant behaviour or bullying records with the School Board, and address gaps in teaching or practice.

We are committed to a values-driven education for all our children and to ensuring that our students eventually leave IGS: Durham with the strongest foundation of values upon which to build a successful life and with which to make a strong, sustained contribution to 21st century Britain.

The Independent Grammar School: Durham

May 2026

Reviewed: September 2026

Next review: September 2027