British Values and Our Catholic Ethos
The government's definition of ‘British values’ in the ‘Prevent Strategy’ (2011) is a key aspect of our educational approach. These values, which include democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance for those of different faiths and beliefs, are not just a government mandate, but also a reflection of the Christian values that underpin our nation. As a Catholic institution, we are proud to play a central role in promoting these British values, which are deeply rooted in our Catholic ethos.
“We are proud that Catholic schools promote Catholic and British values, including respect for the individual, democracy, individual liberty, and tolerance; this alignment of British values with our Catholic Christian values serves as a unifying force, connecting us all in a shared understanding, purpose, and inclusiveness. Our schools promote cohesion by serving more ethnically diverse and poorer communities. Catholic schools provide high standards of education that are popular with parents from all social, economic, and faith backgrounds.” Paul Barber (Catholic Education Service 15 December 2014).
At SS John and Monica, we recognise the importance of helping students to flourish not only academically but also spiritually, morally, socially and culturally so they are fully prepared for life in British society and their role as citizens, able to make the strongest possible contribution to the Common Good of all. We teach the importance of British Values by going much deeper into what it means to live a good life within a framework of Catholic Christian Values. This provides the context and meaning for understanding why British values are important. Our framework for understanding British values draws on the example of Jesus and his welcome and inclusion of all, developed in Catholic Social Teaching. At SS John and Monica, we provide education that focuses on the formation of the whole person and our vocation and purpose in life. We emphasise celebrating individuality and difference within our communities and our calling to work for the Common Good in the service of others. Our Catholic ethos, including Christian and British values, makes a difference in how we work together and with our wider communities. Within this framework, it would be impossible to overlook the government's view of British values expressed as ‘democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs.’