If you’re visited by an Ofsted inspector one of the things they are duty-bound to look out for is the highly-ritualised idea that certain positive social traits are being upheld in your institution.
First described in the earliest iteration of the Prevent Strategy to combat radicalisation, the so-called fundamental British Values are: “Democracy; the rule of law; individual liberty; and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.”
Similar lists exist elsewhere. The Nolan Principles of Public Life are supposed to be followed by both elected representatives and government employees. They are “selflessness; integrity; objectivity; accountability; openness; honesty; and leadership”. In Scotland this list has two further additions of “public service; and respect”.
