Policy on British Values

Legal framework

All schools have a duty to ‘actively promote’ the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. These values were first set out by the government in the ‘Prevent’ strategy in 2011. As an organisation working in schools, SparkFish commits itself to partnership with school leaders and staff in promoting British values and preventing them from being undermined.

Underlying principle

At the heart of these values is a fundamental principle: each person matters. That is why we should listen to each individual’s views, respect their right to share them, allow them to vote and protect them with just laws. The principle that each person matters is also at the heart of the Christian faith. Britain’s Christian heritage has shaped these values, and Christian work in schools supports them.

The values of SparkFish

SparkFish aims to ‘love and value young people because every child matters to God…. Our goal is to engage respectfully with every school, young person and parent, whatever their background or beliefs.’

SparkFish contributes to the promotion of British values through the three strands of its work:

• Learn helps students to understand the beliefs and values of the Christian faith
• Think gives opportunities to reflect on choices and responsibilities, tolerance and respect
• Hope develops self-esteem and respect for others

Through those strands we hope to strengthen community life in school and beyond – communities where people are cared for unconditionally, valued equally and helped to live in peace and harmony.

Promoting respect

SparkFish team members are motivated by their Christian beliefs to promote the spiritual development of children and young people. This is fostered by good RE teaching and the opportunity for every child to reflect personally on meaning and purpose in life. We will seek to ensure children of all backgrounds and beliefs feel included in any SparkFish activity. We will seek to value and respect the choices of belief and lifestyle permitted within British law.

Preventing radicalisation

SparkFish is committed to the safeguarding of children and young people and provides appropriate training and advice for its staff and volunteers.

One aspect is safeguarding children and young people from radicalisation – persuasion towards extreme political or religious views. Such views promote fear or hatred of others based on ignorance or prejudice, destroy community relationships and limit the life chances of young people.

If a team member comes across any indication of possible radicalisation in a child or young person, they should report their concern without delay to the Designated Safeguarding Lead in the school and inform the Director of SparkFish.

The SparkFish team believes that education is a powerful weapon against radicalisation. It equips children and young people with the knowledge, skills and critical thinking to challenge and debate in an informed way. We hope that our work will help to prevent harm and promote all that is good in the Christian values of faith, hope and love.

Approved by the trustees of SparkFish June 2018

Revised January 2021