Upwell Academy

🗣️ Pupil Voice at Upwell Academy

At Upwell Academy, we believe that pupil voice matters. Our children help shape the life of our school through active involvement, leadership, and shared decision-making.

One of the key ways pupils contribute is through our Pupil Leadership Team (PLT). These pupils are elected by their classmates and work hard to make our school an even better place to learn and grow.

We also gather pupil views through questionnaires and surveys throughout the year, giving every child a chance to share their ideas, thoughts, and opinions.

💡 How Pupils Get Involved

• Class voting takes place at the start of each year to elect PLT members
• Pupils take part in House assemblies, Eco Council, and Pupil Leadership activities
• Children are encouraged to debate topics, share their views, and help make decisions on things that matter to them—like celebrations, fundraising, and parking
• Questionnaires and surveys give pupils a voice in school improvement
• The value of democracy is explored in lessons, assemblies, and special themed days
• Pupils learn about and show respect for public institutions and services
• We teach how pupils can influence decisions through democratic processes
• In Year 6, pupils study a dedicated topic on the civil rights movement, including peaceful protest and political change
• We encourage pupils to express their views respectfully and ensure they are listened to
• Staff model how to challenge injustice peacefully and thoughtfully

⚖️ Understanding Rules and Laws at Upwell Academy

At Upwell Academy, we know that rules and laws are a part of everyday life—at school, at home, and in our wider community. We help our pupils understand that rules are there to keep us safe, help us learn, and make sure everyone is treated fairly.

We teach that following rules is important, whether they’re in the classroom, around school, or in the local area. Pupils help create some of their own class rules, so they understand why rules matter and what happens when they’re not followed.

Throughout the year, we welcome visitors such as police officers, firefighters, and war veterans to share real-life stories that help bring the Rule of Law to life.

🏫 What We Do to Promote the Rule of Law

• Make sure school rules are clear and fair, and celebrate when pupils follow them
• Involve pupils in creating class rules, helping them understand choices and consequences
• Teach pupils to know right from wrong and make good decisions
• Explore the importance of laws through topics like The Romans and The Stone Age
• Help pupils understand that laws protect everyone and keep us safe
• Discuss peer pressure and how to make safe choices in our Personal Development lessons
• Promote the Rights Respecting School Articles in policies, assemblies, and displays
• Refer to the Equality Act 2010 in our No Outsiders assemblies to promote fairness and inclusion
• Teach how to challenge injustice peacefully, using real examples and respectful discussion

🧠 Freedom of Choice and Personal Safety at Upwell Academy

At Upwell Academy, we believe that every child should have the freedom to explore their interests and make choices that help them grow. That’s why we offer an ever-expanding range of clubs and activities, which pupils can choose from based on what they enjoy. These clubs are fully inclusive, welcoming all children regardless of ability, background, or experience.

Whether it's sports, music, art, computing, or eco projects, our clubs give pupils the chance to develop new skills, build friendships, and express themselves in a safe and supportive environment.

🛡️ Learning About Rights and Staying Safe

Through our PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) education, pupils learn about:

• Their rights and personal freedoms
• How to make safe and informed choices
• How to stay safe online and in the community
• How to recognise and respond to peer pressure
• The importance of consent, boundaries, and respectful relationships
• How to ask for help and know who to turn to when they feel unsure or unsafe

We encourage children to speak up, ask questions, and take responsibility for their own safety and wellbeing. These lessons are reinforced through assemblies, circle time, and real-life scenarios, helping pupils understand how to stay safe while enjoying their freedom.

🌍 Celebrating Differences and Promoting Respect at Upwell Academy

At Upwell Academy, we believe that every child is unique, and that our differences make us stronger. We teach our pupils to accept, understand, and appreciate people who may be different from themselves—whether in background, beliefs, abilities, or interests.

In our school, children learn and play together with kindness and respect. We work in teams, support one another, and celebrate what makes each of us special. Mutual respect and understanding are at the heart of everything we do.

🧠 Learning About Diversity in Modern Britain

We live in a wonderfully diverse country, and we want our pupils to grow up feeling confident, respectful, and curious about the world around them. That’s why we:

• Offer a culturally rich and inclusive curriculum, where all major religions and world views are studied and respected
• Teach children that tolerance and appreciation come from knowledge and understanding
• Explore different cultures, traditions, and beliefs through RE lessons, assemblies, celebrations, and special events
• Encourage children to ask questions, share their own experiences, and learn from others
• Promote values such as kindness, fairness, and inclusion in everything we do—from classroom discussions to playground interactions
• Help children become thoughtful, informed citizens who can help build a better, more respectful Britain for the future