Democracy
All children vote for their class representatives who sit on the Pupil Parliament. The Pupil Parliament meets regularly and the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister then discuss issues raised in Pupil Parliament meetings with the Headteacher. Children are also encouraged to make decisions fairly outside of class, such as deciding what game to play. Children will also learn about issues relating to democracy throughout the year through history topics and for other events such as Black History Month.
The Rule of Law
The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced at Our Lady’s. Pupils are taught from an early age the rules of the school. Pupils are taught the value and reasons behind rules and laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Police and Magistrates help reinforce this message.
Individual Liberty
At Our Lady’s, pupils are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment. As a school we educate and provide boundaries for young pupils to make informed choices, through a safe environment and an empowering education. Pupils are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and advised how to exercise these safely. We offer a wide range of clubs and activities that allows children to embrace their own individuality.
Mutual Respect
Mutual respect is at the heart of our values and school ethos. Children learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community treat each other with respect. One of our School Rules reads: Be respectful. Children are encouraged to work together collaboratively and respect the feelings of others.
Tolerance of those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
Our Lady’s is a diverse school. Although we are a Catholic school we promote diversity through our celebrations of different faiths and cultures. Religious Education lessons and PSHE lessons reinforce messages of tolerance and respect for others. Members of different faiths and religions are encouraged to share their knowledge to enhance learning within classes and the school. Each year, the school has an international week where each year group learns about another country and their culture.