SMSC

Our school helps us think about what it means to be a good person.

Year 4 Pupil

We learn that everyone’s story matters, even if their life is different from ours.

Year 6 Pupil

Intent

At our school we aim to develop pupils who are thoughtful, reflective and respectful citizens. Through the curriculum, relationships and wider school experiences, we actively promote pupils’ Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) development so they can understand themselves, relate positively to others and engage responsibly with the world around them.

We intend for pupils to:

• develop curiosity, imagination and a sense of wonder about the world

• understand right and wrong and reflect on the consequences of their actions

• build positive relationships, cooperation and empathy

• appreciate and respect different cultures, beliefs and ways of life

Our approach supports the promotion of fundamental British values — democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs — preparing pupils for life in modern Britain.

Implementation

SMSC development is threaded through the taught curriculum, school culture and enrichment opportunities, ensuring pupils experience these values in meaningful and practical ways.

Curriculum

SMSC is embedded across subjects:

• RE and PSHE provide structured opportunities to explore beliefs, ethical questions and personal identity.

• English, History and Geography encourage discussion of different perspectives, cultures and historical experiences.

• Art, Music and Outdoor Learning nurture creativity, reflection and appreciation of beauty.

Teachers deliberately plan discussion, reflection and debate, allowing pupils to explore ideas respectfully and develop their own viewpoints.

School Ethos and Relationships

Our behaviour expectations and values based approach encourages pupils to:

• reflect on the impact of their choices

• take responsibility for their behaviour

• develop empathy and respect for others.

Democratic Participation

Pupils experience democracy through:

• votes and referendums

• opportunities to influence aspects of school life

• discussions about fairness, justice and community responsibility.

These experiences help pupils understand how democratic processes work in practice.

Wider Opportunities

SMSC is further developed through:

• assemblies exploring values and current events

• visits and visitors that broaden pupils’ cultural awareness

• celebration of a range of cultural and religious festivals

• charitable and community engagement activities.

These experiences help pupils develop an understanding of diversity, shared values and social responsibility.

Impact

As a result of our approach, pupils demonstrate respectful relationships, positive attitudes to learning and an understanding of the school’s shared values.

Pupils show increasing confidence in expressing their ideas, listening to others and working collaboratively, reflecting the strong emphasis placed on discussion, reflection and cooperation across the curriculum.

The school’s recognition system through ClassDojo celebrates pupils who demonstrate the school’s core values, of Courage, Listening, Ownership, Never Give up and Excellence. This helps pupils understand how their actions contribute to a positive and inclusive school community.

Evidence of pupils’ developing spiritual, moral, social and cultural understanding can be seen through:

• thoughtful responses in RE, PSHE and curriculum work

• respectful behaviour and positive interactions between pupils

• engagement with assemblies and wider school experiences

• pupils’ ability to discuss fairness, difference and responsibility

Through these experiences, pupils develop an appreciation of diversity, fairness and mutual respect, helping to prepare them to participate positively in modern British society.

SMSC at Clowne Junior School

British Values at Clowne Junior School

Enrichment Calendar

SMSC Evidence