Promoting British Values

The principle of democracy is consistently being reinforced at Tanfield School, with democracy processes being used for important decisions within the school community, for instance, elections being held for Head Student. During national elections students stand as candidates and we hold as accurate as possible an election process with polling booths and a returning officer. The principle of democracy is also explored in the History and Religious Studies curriculum as well as in morning and afternoon meetings.

Students in all year groups are elected into leadership positions as Student Leaders.

The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced at Tanfield School.

Students are taught the rules and expectations of the school which are highlighted by the student code of conduct and student expectations. Students are taught the value and the reasons behind laws that govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Police and Fire Service reinforce this message. Work is done in History and English about the rule of law. An example being work done on the Magna Carta.

At Tanfield School, students are actively encouraged to make independent choices, with the knowledge that they are in a safe, secure and supportive environment. Staff at Tanfield School educate and provide boundaries for students to make informed choices, through a safe environment.

Students are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms and are advised on how to exercise these safely, for example through e-safety and the Tanfield Learning Journey. Student voice is gathered on a termly basis and students always see the feedback and the impact their opinions have on the school.

Tanfield School has a robust anti-bullying culture and has in place a comprehensive Behaviour for Learning Policy.

Respect is a strong part of Tanfield School. Students 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 and this is reiterated through its teaching and learning environments. Staff model this respectful behaviour towards other staff and students.

This is achieved though equipping students with the ability to understand their place in a culturally diverse society and by giving the opportunities to experience such diversity within the school community. Students benefit from a number of international visitors, including students from other continents and cultures. Additionally, students are actively encouraged to share their faith and beliefs within the school and celebrate festivities throughout the calendar year. The Religious Studies curriculum, which is compulsory for all students up to the end of KS4, provides a broad and balanced education on a range of faiths, religions and cultures.

Tanfield School strives endlessly to ensure that its students leave with the strongest foundation of values upon which to build a successful life and a successful contribution to our Society.