As an apprentice, it’s important to get to grips with what we mean by ‘British Values’—and how they connect to your professional life and your experience at university. These values help shape what it means to be part of modern British society, both in your career and in your community.

Both employers and the University are responsible for promoting these values and ensuring they are embedded in the apprenticeship experience.

What are British Values?

British values have been developed in response to some of the issues outlined in the UK Prevent Strategy. They are designed to underpin the principles of a democratic and free society. They are: 

• Democracy 
• The rule of law 
• Individual liberty 
• Mutual respect and tolerance

British Values in Your Learning Experience

These activities are built into your programme at the University of Westminster, to help you develop confidence, independence and the skills you need for the workplace. Below are some examples of how British Values might be embedded in your learning and experience at the University.

Democracy

Democracy is about everyone having a voice in decisions that affect them. As an apprentice, knowing that you can share your views, take part in discussions and contribute to decisions in your workplace helps build a culture where everyone feels included and able to work together.

Learners will have opportunities to:

• Stand for election as a course representative or join boards and committees.
• Take part in voting at Student Voice elections and understand how elections work.
• Practise giving and receiving constructive feedback.
• Engage with student feedback surveys

Rule of Law

The rule of law means everyone is treated fairly, no matter their background. By understanding the laws and regulations that apply in your workplace and in wider society, you can make informed decisions and ensure your actions meet professional and ethical standards.

Learners will interact with:

• The Student Code of Conduct
• The legal and regulatory requirements relevant to your profession or sector.
• Industry codes of conduct and why they matter.
• Their rights and responsibilities at work, including health and safety.

Individual Liberty

British values support everyone’s freedom to express themselves and follow their own goals. By understanding your rights — and respecting the rights of others — you help create a space where different perspectives can be shared and appreciated.

Learners will be encouraged to:

• Share their views through surveys and feedback opportunities.
• Explore future goals through Career and Employability workshops and events 
• Make choices about modules, project topics or areas of focus.
• Take part in open discussion and debate in a supportive environment.

Mutual Respect and Tolerance

Respecting each other’s differences — whether in ethnicity, gender, beliefs or background — is a key part of British values. Appreciating colleagues’ contributions and recognising their unique strengths helps build a workplace based on understanding and mutual respect.

Learners will:

• Share experiences of working with people from different backgrounds and communities.
• Take part in activities that explore culture, religion, heritage and personal preferences.
• Reflect on respectful discussion and debate in class and at work.
• Discuss how to handle challenging relationships professionally.
• Explore issues such as stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination — and how to challenge them.

Understanding British Values isn’t just a requirement of your apprenticeship — it’s a foundation for becoming a confident, responsible and inclusive professional. By engaging with democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance throughout your studies and workplace experience, you’re building the skills and mindset needed to thrive in modern Britain. These values shape how we learn, work and interact with others, and they help create environments where everyone can contribute and succeed.