At The West Park Academy, we think it is very important that our pupils develop a strong set of values and principles, and that they question and understand what it means to grow up in British society. Through a rich and challenging humanities curriculum, and through a focus on key events in British History, we invite pupils to reflect upon their role in a diverse, multicultural and multi faith society.
In discussing what it means to be British, children engage critically with stereotypes and prejudices and develop an understanding of how we can celebrate our heritage and home cultures whilst also embracing the ties that bind us together.
We help the children to develop a deeply embedded appreciation of the values of fairness and democracy through our humanities curriculum as well as through our use of an academy council, in which children seek to be elected as class representatives.
Our geography curriculum casts a light on global citizenship and the rule of law, including the role of democratic advocacy for change.
Our academy is enriched by the faith of our school community, and we teach an inclusive and all embracing Religious Education curriculum that teaches pupils about the beliefs and practices of all major religious groups, and indeed the shared values that religion can promote in harmony with core British values.
As an academy that serves a predominantly white working class community, we take our responsibility to promote community cohesion, generate a respect for difference and individual rights seriously. Our challenging curriculum enables pupils to recognise the valuable role that they play as emerging citizens in British society.
Democracy
Democracy is embedded within our academy. Pupils are always listened to and understand that their opinions and votes count. Our children respect that every individual has a right to their own opinion and to have their voices heard. For example, our Academy Council and Class Ambassadors are voted for by the pupils and reflect the different voices of the classes.
The Rule of Law
As an academy striving for Rights Respecting status our pupils follow the Academy Code which ensures that every class member is able to learn in a safe and dynamic learning environment, through understanding our rights and responsibilities. Our pupils are taught through stories and current events, the value and reasons behind laws that are there to govern and protect us.
Individual Liberty
Children are encouraged to make their own individual choices, in a safe and supportive environment. As an academy, we educate and provide boundaries for pupils to make safe and informed choices. All of our pupils learn about the importance of on-line safety and respect personal freedoms through PSHE and SEAL. We also provide opportunities for children to develop extra-curricular interests.
Mutual Respect and Tolerance
Of different faiths and beliefs
At The West Park Academy, respect is a key principle which all children understand is an imperative part of living in modern Britain. Our school enhances pupil understanding of different faiths and beliefs through religious education, PSHE, celebrations and inter-school competitions. We support children in their understanding of diversity, in order for them to recognise and respect both similarities and differences.
British Values
At The West Park Academy, we celebrate being British and our Heritage. Our History and Geography curriculum, follows the chronological development of Britain.
