Citizenship
During our whole school assemblies and at other times too, we teach children that each member of our school is special and valuable. Through this, we aim to develop a common understanding of why schools need rules – to make people feel safe and happy (see British Values – Rule of Law). The language of the school is that we are all make mistakes and that ‘Kennall Vale School is a safe place to make mistakes’. Things go wrong, plans don’t always work out and we mess up sometimes. It is how we deal with them, move on and put it right, as well as being honest about the part we played, which is important. We talk about honesty and integrity, and the ‘gut’ feeling in the stomach when something is not right, and where to seek help or guidance.
Being part of a democracy (linked to British Values) is a crucial part of being a British Citizen.
There is also an understanding shared within the community, not only in Kennall Vale but in the national community, that people belong to different ethical, religious or pressure groups and may have views and beliefs which may not be aligned to our own. Embracing positive aspects of a range of backgrounds can only enhance our own community and give opportunity to learn more. Being in a largely monocultural community, staff are aware to present children with opportunities to discuss different identities within a community and inspire curiosity to find out more.
Contributing as a citizen is explicitly referenced to throughout the year: Harvest Festival, Comic Relief, Sports Relief and Children in Need, as well as visiting the elderly at Christmas, contributing ‘Coats for Calais’ and taking part in the ‘Imagine If’ cosy crates initiative in the local community.
In the history, geography and RE curriculum, the importance of society and citizenship is learned, as well as groups which have different beliefs. Debate and discussion are encouraged through our focus on Dialogue and Collaboration, within the safe and explicitly taught boundaries of the classroom, showing tolerance, acceptance, respect as well as appropriate challenge.