Values & Ethos
Our motto is ‘DREAM, BELIEVE, ACHIEVE ‘ and this underpins all that we try to achieve in our school.
We make no apologies for wanting the best for and from our pupils – our expectations are high and we are very proud of that. Our children know what we expect from them:
British Values
We actively promote British values in our school to ensure young people leave school prepared for life in modern Britain. Our values reflect the five British values identified by the Government; democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs.
Democracy – an understanding of how people can influence decision-making through the democratic process.
The rule of law – an appreciation that living under the rule of law protects individuals and is essential for their wellbeing and safety
Individual liberty – an understanding that the freedom to choose and hold other faiths and beliefs is protected in law.
Mutual respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs – an acceptance that other people having different faiths or beliefs to oneself (or having none) should be accepted and tolerated, and should not be the cause of prejudicial or discriminatory behaviour.
Pupils are encouraged to regard people of all faiths, races and cultures with respect and tolerance and understand that, while different people may hold different views about what is ‘right’ and ‘wrong’, all people living in England are subject to its law. We also recognise that promoting British values, also means challenging opinions or behaviours in school that are contrary to these.
Democracy – what we do
- School Council elections held annually
- Regularly canvasing the views of parents, and pupils
- Teaching about, and promotion of, public service organisations and institutions – the local library, the fire service, the school crossing patrols
- Ensuring voting on decisions in class is done in a democratic way
- Teaching and discussions about local and national events and government
- Teaching about historical events that have influence our democracy – eg the struggle of the Suffragette movement is taught through the Year 6 topic on conflict
- Regular assemblies
- Help pupils to express their views
The rule of law – what we do
- Ensure school values, rules and expectations are clear and fair
- Promote good behaviour through inspiring public figures
- Emphasise the need to make ‘good choices’ and to know right from wrong
- Promote a respect for the police and the justice system
- Help children to understand peer pressure and the need to obey the law
- Encourage visits from the local Police Community Support Offiers and utilise other services provided by the police – eg online safety awareness
Individual liberty – what we do
- Support pupils to develop their independence, confidence and personality
- Emphasise the importance of taking responsibility for our own behaviour
- Help children understand their rights and how we can respect the rights of others
- Have a proactive approach to tackling bullying
- Challenge stereotypes both in school and the wider world
- Provide a range of extra-curricular activities for all pupils
Mutual respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs – what we do
- Challenge predujical or discriminatory behaviour
- Teach children about different faiths and beliefs
- Visit places of worship and welcome faith leaders into school
- Celebrate festivals from all religions
- Help pupils understand and celebrate thier own culture and beliefs
- Ensure significant events in the news are tackled in an age approapriate way
The Ironstone Academy Trust
The Ironstone Academy Trust shares our ethos and commitment to providing the best possible education for all pupils and in giving our children, families and community the best possible chances through a broad and relevant curriculum, enriched by well planned visits and resources. We pride ourselves on our nurturing attitude of support, respect and care in all of our relationships and activities and for all of our children.
Ironstone Mission Statement
‘Ironstone Academy Trust will build a partnership of schools.
The Trust will put the need of pupils at the heart of their decision making and will, through collaborative working and challenge strive to meet their needs.
Partners in the Trust will work and learn together. Our pupils will be confident, knowledgeable, well-managed and ready to take on the challenges that life brings and they will be well supported in meeting these aims.’
