British Values

Brentwood College is committed to serving its community and surrounding areas. It recognises the rich multi-cultural, multi-faith, and ever-evolving nature of the United Kingdom, and therefore those it serves. It also understands the vital role it has in fostering a safe, open environment to protect students from radicalisation or other harmful influences and allow them to develop their own views.

The college seeks to serve all and adheres to its governing body’s equal opportunities policies, ensuring that there is no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, disability, political or financial status, or other personal characteristics.

In line with the government's guidance, Brentwood College is committed to promoting the key British Values, which include: -

• Democracy
• The rule of law
• Individual liberty
• Mutual respect
• Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

Through a wide range of activities, Brentwood College aims to meet these standards and uses strategies within the college curriculum and beyond to secure such outcomes for students. These activities are adapted and tailored to ensure they are accessible to all students in a meaningful way, taking into account their needs and abilities. Alongside this, students are offered a wide range of additional opportunities to support their spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development. While FE colleges are not required to hold daily acts of worship, students engage in and celebrate cultural events throughout the year that reflect the diversity of faiths and beliefs within their community. The information below outlines some examples of when and where these values are shared. 

The curriculum provides students with the opportunity to develop the skills required to communicate, make/express choices and find out information.  These include the development of functional reading, writing and number skills, independent and collaborative work, and activities designed to gain an understanding of the place and society in which they live at a level appropriate to their understanding.

The curriculum is focused on students having opportunities to be part of the local community through access to different facilities such as other colleges and community centres. Students develop independent living skills which take place both in college and out in the community e.g. shopping for groceries and making their own lunches. By accessing work experience and volunteering in the community, students are able to engage in meaningful tasks which provide them with an understanding of their role in society.

Through the Physical and Health Curriculum students are provided with the opportunity to participate in activities that promote working and playing together as well as teamwork. Student engagement with external coaches and other colleges supports students to follow and develop rules, and take part in inclusive activities, celebrating and rewarding success.

College rules, which have been set in collaboration with students, serve to further underpin both the values of Brentwood College and British Values. The college ethos is shared through stories, images, events, music, and expectations. Activities take place in a wide range of ways in order to engage students and to be presented at an appropriate level for their understanding. By providing students with opportunities to celebrate religious festivals, students develop their understanding of a wide range of cultures and faiths, promoting mutual respect and tolerance—key aspects of British Values.

Student Voice:  Brentwood College Student Voice Team (SVT) is made up of students who are voted annually into post. This provides students with the opportunity to develop their understanding of the democratic process. The SVT shares ideas and work together to plan events, interview visitors and discuss policies and developments in the college. There is input from the Speech and Language Therapist to enable them to communicate their views, and those of other students in college.

Reviewed: Autumn 24