Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC)

Spiritual development is when we explore beliefs and experience; respect faiths, feelings and values; enjoy learning about oneself, others and the surrounding world; use imagination and creativity; reflect.

Moral development is when we recognise right and wrong; respect the law; understand consequences; investigate moral and ethical issues; offer reasoned views.

Social development is when we use a range of social skills; participate in the local community; appreciate diverse viewpoints; participate, volunteer and cooperate; resolve conflict; engage with the 'British values' of democracy, the rule of law, liberty, respect and tolerance.

Cultural development is when we appreciate cultural influences; appreciate the role of Britain's parliamentary system; participate in culture opportunities; understand, accept, respect and celebrate diversity.

The aims of our school pupils' SMSC programme are:

• To ensure pupils’ education is holistic rather than focussed narrowly on purely academic aspects of learning.
• To provide pupils with a rounded education, including learning how to work and play together, understanding and respecting others’ points of view, respecting and applying rules and understanding why these exist. 
• To prepare pupils to contribute to society and culture throughout their lives, and enable them to participate actively and positively in the life of the school, their local community and wider society.
• To encourage pupils to value themselves and their unique contributions to their own and others’ lives, and in turn to value and celebrate others and their qualities and abilities.

In our school, pupils' SMSC development is seen for example in:

• Taking part in pupil voice through the school council and their questionnaires.
• Taking part in a range of activities regarding social skills
• Developing an awareness and respect for diversity.
• Developing an understanding of right and wrong.
• Developing the communication skills to make choices about likes/dislikes in school then in wider community visits.
• Taking part in sporting and cycling opportunities.
• Taking part in cultural opportunities.
• Taking part in artistic opportunities.

This integrated approach ensures that aspects of SMSC are considered in all subject areas.