Head of Standards, Safeguarding and SEND Mrs Ash delivered some very thought-provoking main school assemblies this week to all year groups in the Main Hall about British Values, a set of five principles that are actively promoted in schools across the country centring around Democracy, The Rule of Law, Individual Liberty, Mutual Respect and Tolerance of different faiths and beliefs.

These five values are intended to help individuals become compassionate, considerate and responsible citizens who contribute positively to society and align well with Bushey Meads School’s values of Respect, Responsibility and Relationships.

Mrs Ash explained to students what each value meant:

1. Democracy – this involves understanding that everyone has a say and the right to express their opinions and that society is built on equality and the freedom to choose.
2. The Rule of Law – this is the understanding that laws are in place to protect everyone and create a safe, secure environment; it emphasizes that no one is above the law.
3. Individual Liberty -this means having freedom of speech and the freedom to exercise individual rights within the law; it also includes understanding one’s own rights and responsibilities.
4. Mutual Respect – this involves treating all individuals with respect, regardless of their differences.
5. Tolerance of different faiths and beliefs – this is the acceptance of diverse opinions, beliefs, and backgrounds; it means not imposing one’s own views on others and allowing people to express their beliefs without fear of persecution.