Overview

This bill mandates the inclusion of specific values in statements about British values used in education in England and Wales. These values, defined within the bill, aim to promote a shared understanding of British citizenship.

Description

The Education (Values of British Citizenship) Bill requires all statements related to British values in English and Welsh education, produced by the Secretary of State, OFSTED, and other public authorities, to include five core values: democracy, the rule of law, freedom (including freedom of thought, conscience, religion, expression, assembly, and association), individual worth (defined as respect for the equal worth and dignity of every person), and respect for the environment (defined as considering the impact of human actions on environmental health and sustainability globally, for present and future generations). The bill further stipulates that these values must be referred to as "values of British citizenship". The Act extends to England and Wales and comes into force on the day it is passed.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify any changes to government spending. The implementation costs for updating statements and educational materials to reflect the new requirements are likely to be minimal.

Groups Affected

The bill directly affects:
• The Secretary of State for Education: Responsible for ensuring compliance with the new requirements.
• OFSTED: Must incorporate the specified values into their statements and inspections.
• Public authorities involved in education: Required to include the values in their statements.
• Schools and educational institutions: Will need to adapt their teaching materials and practices to align with the defined values.
• Students and educators: Will be exposed to a curriculum and guidance influenced by this bill's definition of British citizenship.

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