Statement on Core British Values

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Statement on Core British Values

Express English College is a multicultural and international community in which we help to foster an acceptance and tolerance of a range of views students many encounter in such an environment. We fully subscribe to the Government’s Prevent strategy and we encourage our students to express their views and beliefs as long as these respect the core British values of:

• democracy;

• the rule of law;

• individual liberty;

• mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.

At Express English College, we are aware that some students may possibly have been exposed to extremist influences or prejudiced views before their arrival in the UK or may be exposed to them after coming here. These influences may emanate from a variety of sources and media, including via the Internet, and at times students may themselves reflecting or displaying views that may be discriminatory, prejudiced or extremist, including using derogatory language. Any prejudice, discrimination, or extremist views, including derogatory language, displayed by students or staff will always be challenged and dealt with in line with the relevant policies on student behaviour and staff conduct.

As part of wider safeguarding responsibilities, staff will be alert to, and have a duty to report:

• Graffiti symbols, writing or artwork promoting extremist messages or images.

• Disclosures by students regarding their exposure to extremist actions, and/or views/materials, encountered outside school (such as in their homes or community groups).

• Students accessing extremist material online, including through social networking sites.

• Any reports of changes in behaviour, friendship or actions and requests for assistance.

• Students voicing opinions drawn from extremist ideologies or narratives. • Use of extremist or “hate” terms to exclude others or incite violence. • Intolerance of difference, whether based on secular, religious, gender, disability, sexuality, race, colour, or cultural grounds. • Attempts to impose extremist views or practices on others. • Anti-Western or Anti-British views.

In the first instance, reports of any of the above will be made to the DSL or DDSL. In extreme cases the police may need to be notified.

In order to help prevent such occurrences, the school is committed to:

• Raising staff and student awareness of radicalisation and extremism

• Working with local agencies and sharing information

• Maintaining robust ICT measures to prevent access to extremist or otherwise inappropriate websites.

Review: Reviewed December 2023(AW)

This document to be reviewed by the management team not less than every six months. Next review due June 2024. It may also be subject to any changes based on UK law.