St Damian’s is dedicated to preparing pupils for their adult life beyond the curriculum and ensuring that it promotes and reinforces British values to all its pupils. It also helps them to develop the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to live confident, healthy, independent lives as active members of society. In addition to this, the PSHE programme promotes fundamental British Values, which are taught implicitly in lessons and throughout all key stages.

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We recognise that young people will bring prior learning and real-life experiences to their learning. Our programme respects and builds on these, providing a programme that reflects both the universal and unique needs of our pupils.

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British Values underpin what it is to be a citizen in a modern and diverse Britain. St Damian’s works to establish a strong sense of social and moral responsibility in the school community. British Values support us to create an environment free from discrimination, intolerance and hate and help us to challenge prejudice and stereotyping, whilst strengthening relationships within the community.

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The five key British Values are:

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1. Democracy

2. The rule of law

3. Individual liberty

4. Mutual respect

5. Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

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Over time this means that pupils should:

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• Understand the democratic process and how citizens can have a say in decision making.

• Recognise the advantages to living under the rule of law and how law is essential for a safe society.

• See that there is a separation of power and why it exists.

• Understand the reasons for accountability of institutions and why courts maintain independence.

• Know why freedom of religion protects all faiths, as well as those with no faith.

• Accept that people who hold different religious beliefs should be tolerated and not be discriminated against.

• Value the importance of identifying and combatting extremism.

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In recent years, to coincide with national elections, we have held our very own ‘mock’ Election Days at St. Damian’s. Pupils have investigated the different political parties in the UK and have had the opportunity to discuss and debate the different manifestos before voting for their chosen party. This has given pupils the opportunity to experience what it is like to vote in a democratic country.

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On our ‘ASPIRE Days,’ pupils have had the opportunity to listen to and ask questions from our invited guests who represent the local area, for example, a local councillor, Member of Parliament and local police officers.