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British values

Promoting Universal Human Values at BGS

At Batley Grammar School (BGS) our philosophy states:

“At Batley Grammar School we aim to nurture students and pupils in a caring educational environment, enabling them to grow into confident, respectful, independent and successful learners. In so doing, equipping them with the depth of character and enthusiasm necessary to aspire, thrive and prosper in future academic and wider social endeavours.”

We are therefore committed to raising aspirations for all our students so they can achieve their full potential and make a positive contribution to society.  Promoting universal human values is an essential part of our wider curriculum which also includes other aspects of SMSC and Careers education.  It remains at the heart of our philosophy and curriculum and we ensure every student leaves BGS as respectful, aspiring and forward thinking young people. 

We are proud of our rich and diverse learning community and ensure that every student is respectful of all individuals and groups, regardless of their background, including; faith, ethnicity, gender and sexuality, politics or financial wellbeing.

Our fundamental human values are:

  • Democracy
  • Law
  • Freedom
  • Independence
  • Respect
  • Equality

Our Communication for Learning programme promotes human values through a structured programme of lessons and assemblies.  It is viewed as an integral part of the curriculum.  

Democracy

  • Our whole school ethos promotes democracy through promoting a love of learning where all questions and opinions are valued and encouraged
  • Student Leadership Teams
  • Whole school elections of Prefects and Head Prefects
  • Student voice – curriculum feedback and through Student Leadership Teams
  • Parent voice – we have an active Parent Forum group which meet regularly and also get regular feedback from parents
  • Consideration of local and national democracy through PSCHE lessons.
  • Celebration and achievement assemblies
  • Enrichment Shadow Elections, running alongside both local and national elections

Law

  • Our school ethos promotes equality and respect on all levels. Through our anti-bullying and Behaviour for Learning policies we set clear boundaries on the difference between what is right and wrong and we have high expectations for all students.
  • Raising awareness of anti-bullying though national Anti-Bullying Week and Safer Internet Day.
  • PSHCE lessons teach students about the value of laws and its place in society. 

Freedom

  • Our school environment promotes liberty, independence and individuality.
  • Students at BGS are encouraged to know and understand their rights and personal freedoms.  This is delivered through PSCHE lessons and Communication for Learning they know how to exercise these safely and have an opportunity to do so.
  • Student Leadership gives an opportunity for student voice and they have successfully run a number of different initiatives, many around fundraising.
  • We challenge stereotypes and offer a fully inclusive curriculum to all students.

Independence

  • We have a whole school culture and ethos that promotes and builds high aspirations and resilience.
  • Our growth mindset philosophy allows staff to promote positive self-esteem and sense of self amongst all students. This helps to heighten their aspirations through a “can do” attitude.
  • We encourage all students to take part in afterschool clubs and extra-curricular activities which help to build learner resilience and independence.
  • We offer a wide range of outside of the classroom opportunities that enrich opportunities which build students independence and also help to prepare them for their futures and career pathways.
  • 100% of learners leave BGS to go into employment, further education or apprenticeships which is aided by our high aspirations for all.

Respect

  • At the heart of our learning community is respect.  We strive for excellence in everything and aim to give students from every background the education they deserve and the best life chances.
  • Displays around school promote respect for each other and themselves, this is also shown through our Behaviour for Learning policy.
  • School assemblies are used to address respect and what this means.
  • Staff and students are encouraged to challenge behaviour that shows prejudice and discrimination.

Equality

  • We are a very diverse school community which is something we are very proud of.
  • Students organise and take part in regular fundraising events such as food bank donations and Children in Need which help support people that are less fortunate.
  • Through our RS and PSCHE curriculum, students have the opportunity to discuss and respect differences between people on topics such as religion, ethnicity, disabilities, gender, sexuality or family situations. BTEC H&SC and GCSE RS enable students to study these areas in greater depth.
  • Links and visits are promoted with local faith groups and communities and places of worship, such as local churches and mosques. At school we celebrate world faith days such as Christmas, Diwali and Eid through in school celebrations.