The Department for Education encourages schools to promote British values to ensure young people leave school prepared for life in
modern Britain. These include democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
One fundamental principle of democracy is that it allows people to participate in decisions that affect their lives. At Wisborough Green Primary School, we encourage children to have their own ideas and to be part of the decision-making process. This may include contributing to class decisions, sharing their thoughts and opinions with classmates and teachers or taking on and voting for various positions of responsibility within their class.
Each year, on Democracy Day, children in Years 1 to 6 have an opportunity to put themselves forward for positions of responsibility and may come to school wearing red, white and blue. Children briefly explain why they would like to stand for a specific role and what knowledge or personal qualities they would bring to that role. Some children deliver a short speech, with notes. Others produce a short presentation. There is then a democratic secret ballot to select each position.
All the children who are voted in to represent their year group have the responsibility of voicing their opinion and that of their classmates, meeting regularly as a school group and providing feedback to the rest of their class. Key roles within our school Include: Sports Leaders (Captains in Year 6); School Council; Learning Council; Eco Warriors; Library Monitors; and Digital Leaders.
Children in Year 6 also have an opportunity to represent the whole school as an Ambassador, showing visitors round, assisting staff members and even occasionally participating in recruiting new members of staff! This involves writing a letter to the Headteacher explaining why they should be considered for the role and which qualities they would bring if appointed. I am proud to say that participation and enthusiasm for this democratic process are high and the children’s ideas and dedication to their roles ensure that their voices are most definitely heard!
Best wishes,
Caroline Bennett
Headteacher
01403 700280
Visit our website for more info: www.wisboroughgreenschool.org.uk
or follow us on Twitter – @WisGreenPrimary