SMSC

What is SMSC?

SMSC stands for spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. All schools in England must show how well their pupils develop in SMSC.

Spiritual

Explore beliefs and experience; respect faiths, feelings and values; enjoy learning about oneself, others and the surrounding world; use imagination and creativity; reflect – covered through RE lessons.

Moral

Recognise right and wrong; respect the law; understand consequences; investigate moral and ethical issues; offer reasoned views.

Social

Investigate and moral issues; appreciate diverse viewpoints; participate, volunteer and cooperate; resolve conflict; engage with the fundamental values of British democracy.

Cultural

Appreciate cultural influences; appreciate the role of Britain’s parliamentary system; participate in culture opportunities; understand, accept, respect and celebrate diversity.

At South Failsworth Primary School, we recognise that the personal development of our students plays a significant part in their ability to learn and achieve their full potential. As such, the spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) enrichment of our students is at the heart of the school’s ethos. We plan opportunities for SMSC development through our unique curriculum, 'Our World'. Our long term plans for each year group specify what the children will learn 'as global citizens.' Have a look on our learning page.

We believe that our students cannot and will not learn effectively unless:

  • they are happy and secure;
  • their individuality is respected;
  • their differences are celebrated;
  • their difficulties are understood;
  • their interests are extended;
  • their talents are developed.

For this reason the SMSC development of our students is as important as their academic development. We aim to provide an education that provides students with opportunities to ‘shine’ in any way they can and enables them to explore and develop their own:

  • values and beliefs;
  • spiritual awareness;
  • personal behaviour;
  • positive and caring attitude towards others;
  • understanding of their social and cultural roots;
  • an appreciation of the diversity and richness of other cultures.