Fundamental British Values

"Without social cohesion, society cannot exist; it is the 'glue' that holds us together"

-Emile Durkheim, 1893

French Sociologist, Emile Durkheim, reminds us of how vital it is for schools to nurture Fundamental British Values. He emphasised the importance of a strong collective conscience: the shared beliefs and values people possess which bind them together. Where the collective conscience is strong, social solidarity exists. Where social solidarity exists, societies are more likely to be successful and thrive. 

At Windsor Girls' School, we work hard to ensure that every member of our community feels that they belong. Belonging helps people to feel accepted, safe and valued. When people feel that they belong, they respect themselves; they respect other people. They are more confident, motivated, willing to participate and learn. Belonging gives people a sense of identity; it gives them a shared sense of purpose. 

Our aim is to ensure that our young people leave school fully equipped, prepared, enthused and ready to embrace life in modern Britain. Our students are encouraged to regard people of all faiths, backgrounds and cultures as equal in worth. We want our students to treat themselves and others with respect; that they show tolerance and understand that while people may hold different views about what is ‘right’ and ‘wrong’, all people living in England are subject to the law.

The Fundamental British Values we seek to instil and promote are:

• Democracy: everyone having a say in decisions that affect them...
• Rule of Law: everyone must follow the rules and laws that protect people and keep us safe...
• Individual Liberty: people have freedom to make choices and live as they choose...
• Mutual Respect: treating others with kindness and understanding...
• Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs: accepting and respecting people's beliefs...

Schools are a microcosm of society; they help society to function healthily. They encourage cooperation and they ensure that individuals understand what is expected of them, supporting both personal growth and social stability. At Windsor Girls' School, we recognise the contribution that each of us makes in shaping our own lives, the lives of others and our society. This is something we would never take for granted; it is the essence of our moral purpose.

Windsor Girls' School