Curriculum
British Values
Rookery actively promotes the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. These values are embedded through curriculum learning, school culture, pupil leadership and everyday relationships.
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Curriculum Intent
At Rookery School, we are committed to promoting the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
Our school values of **Respect, Resilience and Responsibility** complement these principles, helping pupils develop confidence, empathy and a strong sense of belonging. Through an inclusive curriculum, we encourage children to understand their rights and responsibilities, appreciate diversity, respect others and contribute positively to life in modern Britain.
Curriculum Implementation
British values are embedded throughout school life through our curriculum, classroom experiences, relationships and a carefully planned annual programme of assemblies and events. The values are displayed in classrooms and reinforced alongside our Rookery values of Respect, Resilience and Responsibility.
Democracy: Pupils learn to express their opinions, listen respectfully, participate in decisions and understand democratic processes.
The Rule of Law: Children explore the importance of rules, laws, fairness and accountability, including how laws protect individuals and communities.
Individual Liberty: Pupils develop independence, make informed choices and understand that personal freedoms come with responsibilities.
Mutual Respect: We promote kindness, equality and positive relationships, encouraging pupils to recognise and challenge prejudice and discrimination.
Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs: Through Religious Education, assemblies and wider learning, children develop an understanding and appreciation of different religions, cultures and beliefs, including those with no religious belief.
Age-appropriate teaching also promotes responsible citizenship, political impartiality, online safety and awareness of harmful influences, helping pupils make informed decisions and seek support when needed.
Reading, Vocabulary & Oracy
Pupils develop their understanding of British values through age-appropriate reading, discussion and explicit vocabulary teaching. Key concepts include democracy, liberty, equality, respect, tolerance, rights and responsibility.
Stories, curriculum activities and structured discussions encourage pupils to express their views confidently, listen to different perspectives, distinguish facts from opinions and disagree respectfully. These experiences strengthen communication, critical thinking and responsible participation in society.
Inclusion & Adaptation
British values are promoted through an inclusive curriculum that celebrates diversity and ensures every pupil feels respected, valued and able to participate.
Teaching is adapted to meet individual learning needs, including those of pupils with SEND, using accessible resources and age-appropriate experiences. Pupils develop an understanding of equality, protected characteristics and the importance of challenging discrimination, while learning to respect different backgrounds, cultures, faiths and beliefs.
Assessment
Pupils’ understanding of British values is assessed through classroom discussions, curriculum activities, pupil voice and everyday school experiences.
Teachers consider how confidently children can explain key principles, demonstrate respect and responsibility, recognise discrimination and apply their learning to real-life situations. School leaders review curriculum provision and pupils’ experiences to ensure British values remain meaningfully embedded throughout school life.
Enrichment & Wider Opportunities
Our annual programme of assemblies, events and wider curriculum experiences provides opportunities for pupils to explore and demonstrate British values beyond the classroom.
Through pupil participation, collaborative activities and engagement with our diverse Birmingham community, children develop an appreciation of democracy, citizenship, cultural diversity and shared responsibility. These experiences reinforce our Rookery values and encourage pupils to make positive contributions to school and wider society.
Curriculum Impact
We aim for pupils to leave Rookery School with a secure, age-appropriate understanding of British values and the confidence to apply them in everyday life.
Children should recognise the importance of democracy, laws, individual rights, equality and respect for different beliefs. They should demonstrate kindness, resilience and responsibility, challenge prejudice appropriately and contribute positively to their communities.
By embedding British values alongside our school vision, we prepare pupils to become respectful, informed and responsible citizens in modern Britain.
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