Democracy can be seen as a state of society characterised by equality of rights and privileges. It can also refer to our nation’s electoral systems. At Stoke Damerel we promote the importance of democracy in many ways, for example:

• The election of our House Captains, School Council Representatives and Student Leadership Teams

• Promotion of and participation in the UK Youth Parliament 

• Explicit teaching about British democracy through Modern Britain and PSHE lessons, as well as links to it in many other curriculum subjects and the Tutor Time Reading Programme

• Students being given the opportunity to make choices both within lessons and the wider curriculum

• Students are encouraged to challenge their own views and the views of other

• The ethos of the college of one of promoting equality for all

• Curriculum Collapse focus 

• Students have opportunities to take part in political discussion and debate

• Students have the opportunity to visit the Houses of Parliament 

All people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly applied and enforced. At Stoke Damerel we promote the importance of the rule of law through such things as:

• School has its Behaviour for Learning policy that has been developed in consultation with our students

• The school invites community police in to discuss local issues

• Students visit the local courts to gain an understanding of the judicial system

• Student participate Modern Britain and PSHE lessons exploring the Rule of Law

• Drugs and Alcohol education takes place through PSHE and Curriculum Collapse, supported at times by guest speakers 

• Close working relationships with the local Police as part of our pastoral care

• Assemblies

Individual liberty suggests the free exercise of rights generally seen as outside Government control. At Stoke Damerel we promote the importance of individual liberty through such things as:

• Creating an environment where students feel safe, secure and confident in sharing their views to keep themselves and others safe

• PSHE and Modern Britain curriculums allow students to learn about the importance of being free to make your own choices

• Students are actively encouraged to discuss and have dialogue about their rights and responsibilities in Britain today

• The wealth of extra-curricular activities and clubs available to all students.

• There is an extensive information, advice and guidance (IAG) process within the College giving the opportunity for choice at key transition points

The proper regard for an individual’s dignity, which is reciprocated.

At Stoke Damerel we promote the importance of mutual respect through such things as:

• Our House System, Tutor Time Reading Programme and our Rewards System

• PSHE and Modern Britain lessons where students explore the importance of Protected Characteristics and the Equality Act 2010

• Fostering a strong ethos within the College which promotes the importance of personal identity, anti-bullying, healthy relationships (inc. consent), emotional health as well as challenging gender and disability stereotypes, sexism, racism, homophobia and transphobia

• Disruption free learning environment

• Student involved in interviewing new staff and provide hospitality at a wide range of school events

• We carry out “You say, we do” assemblies where student’s views are acted on and progress fed back to the students

• Year Teams deliver assemblies focusing on topical issues 

• The College’s uniform was developed with consultation with all stakeholders