Preparing Children for Life in Modern Britain

At St. Stephen’s Infant School we take very seriously our responsibility to prepare children for life in modern Britain. We ensure that the fundamental British Values are introduced, discussed and lived out through the ethos and work of the school. All curriculum areas provide a vehicle for furthering understanding of these concepts and, in particular, our RE, PSHE and assembly lessons provide excellent opportunities to deepen and develop understanding. Children embrace these concepts with enthusiasm and demonstrate a good understanding of their application to their own lives. Our school mission statement and aims encompass all British Values; these have been developed by all stakeholders and are reflected in our schools daily practice and beyond.

At St. Stephen’s Infant School we strive to provide a broad and balanced education for all children in our care. We aim to create a happy, caring and stimulating learning environment in which all children can grow in self-esteem to reach their full potential.
 

In particular we aim, by learning together, to:

• Develop a love of learning and a desire to continue building on skills and knowledge throughout our lives. Make learning fun.
• Teach children to think for themselves and develop an enquiring mind by providing a safe and secure environment.
• Encourage emotional development through the support and care shown by others in school. Nurture.
• Encourage mutual respect. Help people to learn to live together in a community, showing sensitivity to the differences between each other. Culturally and morally inclusive.
• Help all children to become responsible independent people who are able to look at and think deeply about the world around them, preparing them for life in modern Britain.
• Widen experiences in order to raise aspirations.
• Involve parents as partners in learning and work together as a team.

The school makes considerable efforts to ensure children have exposure to a wide experience beyond their local community during which these concepts are shown, through for example, cultural events via music and art, a range of visits and use of outdoor education learning opportunities. Their strong rooted values-based understanding gives them an excellent platform for embracing difference.