British Values

The government set out its definition of ‘British values’ in the ‘Prevent Strategy’ (2011), British values are considered to be “democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs”.

The promotion of ‘British values’ is pivotal to the Islamic education at Darul Ihsan as the above British values are complimentary and in accordance to Islamic values. At Darul Ihsan we recognise, not only the importance of helping students to flourish academically but also spiritually, morally, socially and culturally, so they are fully prepared for their role as British citizens, able to make a valuable contribution to the Common Good of all. Our underlying ethos is that we all aim:

We teach the importance of British Values both through our curriculum and through the example of all members of the school community so that we can demonstrate what it is to live a good life. This is within a framework of Islamic Values, drawing on the example of the Noble Messenger Muhammad (s) through his love for and inclusion of all. The PSHE curriculum provides students with the opportunity to discuss key issues such as tolerance, radicalisation, mutual respect and the rule of law.

As well as reinforcing British Values in general, individual subjects have identified areas of their curricula where they focus on a particular aspect, for example:

English

Rule of Law Individual Liberty Mutual Respect.

Respect for the Individual

At Darul Ihsan we provide an education which focuses on the formation of the whole person and on our vocation and purpose in life. We are guided by our mission statement, Darul Ihsan Traits and by the Islamic values of honourable purpose (vocation and service), respect, compassion, co-operation and stewardship (Khilafatullah) as we reflect on our place and purpose in the world. We place a significant emphasis on the celebration of individuality and difference within our communities and our calling to work for the Common Good, in the service of others.

The Rule of Law

The importance of laws, whether they be those that govern the class, the school, or the country, are consistently reinforced throughout every day, as well as when dealing with behaviour and through assemblies. The curriculum is designed to ensure students are taught the values and reasons behind laws, that they govern and protect us, the responsibilities that this involves and the consequences when laws are broken. Visits from authorities such as the Police, the judicial service and local and central government are regular parts of our learning programmes and help reinforce this message.

Individual Liberty

Within Darul Ihsan, students are actively encouraged to make independent choices knowing that they are in a safe, secure and supportive environment. We educate and provide boundaries for students to make choices through the provision of a safe environment and an empowering education. We encourage students to see themselves as unique individuals able to make a valued contribution to building our community and society in general. Students are encouraged to know, understand and exercise their rights, responsibilities and personal freedoms and receive advice about how to exercise these safely, for example through our exploration of E-Safety in computing and their tutor time activities.

Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs

This is achieved through equipping students with the ability to develop positive values, to understand their own beliefs and their place in a culturally diverse society. All students experience a connection with other cultures and beliefs through our RE and Muslim Chaplaincy programme, and local, regional and international links. The emphasis on enterprise, working with others, and learning other languages directly contributes to the appreciation of others perspectives on life.