Democracy

• Provide pupils with a broad general knowledge of, and promote respect for, public institutions and services – by discussing these whenever appropriate in curriculum work.
• Teach pupils how they can influence decision-making through the democratic process – for example in our School Council work.
• Include in the curriculum information on the advantages and disadvantages of democracy and how it works in Britain – for example when considering periods of history where democracy was not as fully developed as it is now.
• Encourage pupils to become involved in decision-making processes and ensure they are    listened to in school.
• Organise visits to the local council and Parliament – classes have been to the Gateshead Civic Centre and have attended gatherings of School Councils across the borough.
• Hold ‘mock elections’ so pupils learn how to argue and defend points of view – when electing representatives to the School Council for each class and when appointing ‘Buddies’ to work in school.
• Help pupils to express their views – through English lessons and opportunities to present work and opinions throughout the entire curriculum.
• Model how perceived injustice can be peacefully challenged – through our interactions with pupils and the school’s behaviour system and discussing scenarios in assemblies and class PHSE work.