British Values

British Values - The Department for Education sets out five clear strands in their definition of British Values. At Gable Hall School we truly agree with these values.   British Values are taught in a variety of ways, both via the curriculum offered through our subject areas and also through our PSHE curriculum and through our enrichment OSHL opportunities. Every member of staff at Gable Hall is responsible for identifying and delivering key messages linked to the British Values through their everyday interactions with students and by acting as role models by embodying these values in all that they do. We further promote British Values through weekly assemblies, focus days and trips.

What are British Values and how do we as an School engage with them? 

Democracy 

At Gable Hall School, our commitment to democracy extends beyond the selection of Head Boy and Head Girl or the determination of the school's charitable causes; it permeates our entire ethos.

Our approach to democracy goes beyond merely affording individuals the right to cast their votes; it actively encourages participation in informed discussions and the presentation of well-reasoned arguments on matters at hand. This inclusive approach fosters a culture of civic engagement and encourages students and staff alike to take an active role in shaping our community.

Integral to this democratic process is the practice of reporting back on discussions and serving as representatives for others, reinforcing our commitment to open and transparent governance.

Furthermore, the principle of democracy is woven into the fabric of our educational experience. It finds expression not only in the selection of our leaders but also in our curriculum, including the study of history and personal development. In addition, students engage with democratic principles during form time and assemblies, ensuring that our commitment to democracy is a cornerstone of their education and personal growth.

The Rule of Law 

At Gable Hall School, we place a steadfast emphasis on the significance of laws, whether they pertain to the classroom, the school environment, or the broader context of our nation.

We are committed to ensuring that all stakeholders, including students, teachers, and staff, are well-informed about the rules and expectations that govern our school community. It is equally important that everyone understands their responsibility to uphold these standards and to identify those who may not be in compliance.

In alignment with our values, we uphold a culture of reparative justice, wherein individuals who may have transgressed rules are provided with ample opportunities to mend relationships and make amends for any wrongdoings. This approach emphasises growth, learning, and positive change.

Our students are encouraged to actively participate in debates and discussions, fostering a deep understanding of the legal framework within our society. Furthermore, the topic of law is integrated into our curriculum, with dedicated focus in Personal Development, English, and History classes.

To enhance our commitment to legal education and awareness, we collaborate closely with external agencies such as Essex Police, the Fire Service, and other community organisations. These partnerships allow us to broaden our students' understanding of rules, their consequences, and their broader implications within society.

At Gable Hall School, we aim to instil in our students not only a strong respect for the rule of law but also the knowledge and skills necessary to be responsible, informed, and engaged citizens in our diverse and dynamic world.

Individual Liberty 

At Gable Hall School, we are dedicated to nurturing a safe and supportive environment that empowers students to freely express their unique perspectives and opinions. We recognise that fostering independent thinking and creating opportunities for self-expression are integral to developing responsible and engaged members of society.

We encourage our students to explore not only their own rights and personal freedoms but also to gain an understanding of the disparities between the liberties we often take for granted and those experienced in other parts of the world. It is a point of pride for us to exemplify the principles of liberty that our nation upholds, while also emphasising the importance of respecting diverse viewpoints and remaining vigilant against perspectives that may incite discrimination, radicalisation, or extremism.

Throughout our curriculum, we endeavour to provide students with suitable opportunities for individual self-expression, ensuring that they have the space and encouragement to share their thoughts and ideas. We are equally committed to teaching the responsible and safe exercise of individual thought and free speech, particularly in the digital realm. Our efforts include comprehensive education on Internet usage and e-safety to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the online world responsibly.

At Gable Hall School, we have a robust anti-bullying culture in place, supported by comprehensive student discipline policies. We take proactive measures to maintain a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment that empowers our students to grow as informed, responsible, and compassionate members of both our school community and the broader society.

Mutual Respect

At Gable Hall School, fostering individual expression is a fundamental aspect of our educational culture. However, we firmly believe that this expression must always be conducted with a profound respect for the rights and viewpoints of others.

Our school operates in strict accordance with equal opportunities guidance, which unequivocally ensures that every individual, regardless of their faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or any other characteristic, is treated with fairness and without discrimination.

Gable Hall School is committed to equipping students for their lives beyond the classroom, and a crucial part of this preparation involves promoting and reinforcing British values to all our students. Central to these values is the principle of mutual respect for the diverse views and perspectives of others.

In this inclusive and respectful atmosphere, we aim to inspire students to become responsible and compassionate citizens who not only express their own ideas and beliefs but also engage with and appreciate the rich tapestry of thoughts and backgrounds that make up our school community and society as a whole.

Prevention of bullying is very important within Gable Hall School and is addressed through the curriculum, assemblies, surveys and our Anti Bullying Policy. We celebrate Anti-Bullying week with a series of whole school events to promote difference and equality. This is led by our Anti-Bullying Ambassadors and Ms Heald. At Gable Hall School, we teach our students about the importance of being respectful when using the Internet ensuring that bullying is rare at our School.

Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs 

At Gable Hall School, we are committed to fostering tolerance and understanding amongst our students towards individuals of diverse faiths and beliefs. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to encompass a wide spectrum of faiths, beliefs, and cultures, providing students with a rich and comprehensive educational experience.

In our Personal Development lessons, students receive explicit instruction on the beliefs and practices of different religions, allowing them to develop a nuanced understanding of various faiths. We believe that this knowledge is crucial in cultivating respect and empathy for people of different backgrounds.

Our commitment extends to our Character Education program, where students are exposed to different cultures, faiths, and beliefs, promoting a broader world view and an appreciation of the global tapestry of human experience.

Furthermore, during form time, we dedicate one day a week to learning about and celebrating awareness days and significant occasions from various faiths and cultures. This practice ensures that our students engage actively in multicultural learning, celebrating the richness of diversity.

To further enrich our students' experiences, we regularly organise extra-curricular activities that commemorate cultural celebrations such as Chinese New Year, Black History Month, and European Languages Week. These events not only educate our students but also instil in them a sense of inclusivity and respect for different cultural traditions.

At Gable Hall School, our dedication to promoting tolerance of diverse faiths and beliefs is a testament to our commitment to creating a harmonious and inclusive community that prepares our students to thrive in an interconnected and multicultural world.

Citizenship Lessons 

The core Citizenship curriculum is implemented through one 75-minute lesson per fortnight. Students across the school study the same themes each year in spiralling complexity. These sessions teach the core knowledge and allow students to develop their oracy skills, and promote critical thinking throughout.

Citizenship is offered as an option at GCSE for students. The curriculum is further developed and enhanced through the assembly programme, our focus days and wider initiatives and strategies implemented within academy life.

Embracing British Values through Charity Work at Gable Hall School:

At Gable Hall School, we believe in nurturing British values in a broader sense, extending our commitment to charitable endeavours.

Our students understand that a fundamental British value is the recognition and support of those who are less fortunate. To actively promote this value, our students collectively select charities to champion, encompassing local, national, and international causes. We believe that this practice not only demonstrates our commitment to our local and global communities but also instils in our students a sense of social responsibility.

Furthermore, we ensure that every student has the opportunity to actively engage in charitable work. This hands-on experience allows them to connect with and positively impact the lives of others, reinforcing the values of empathy, compassion, and generosity.

Through our dedication to charity work, we aim to empower our students to become not only academically accomplished but also socially conscious individuals who contribute meaningfully to the betterment of society, both locally and on a global scale.