SMSC is central to our teaching, learning and nurturing here at High Halden. In every learning opportunity is a chance to develop spirituality, moral awareness, social skills and cultural appreciation. Each term we think about how we can provide these opportunities and nurture each child as a whole person.

Spiritual, moral, social and cultural education (SMSC) is not taught as a discreet subject in itself but rather it pervades all aspects of learning and aims to ensure our children learn to develop attitudes and beliefs that will make them well-rounded, tolerant, respectful, open-minded and informed future citizens.

From the definitions of each aspect of SMSC below, it is possible to see how these easily combine with many curriculum subjects so that our aims can be achieved.

Spiritual Education

As a Church of England School we believe that developing the spirituality of a child is vital. However, we don’t focus purely on the Christian idea of spirituality. We nurture awe and wonder in our children and encourage them to marvel aloud at things that astound them. 

• Experiencing wonders of the world (man-made and natural) to develop fascination

• Exploring the values and beliefs of others to develop empathy and respect

• Having a range of experiences to develop understanding of human feelings and emotions

• Using imagination and creativity in learning to develop and celebrate individuality in expressive responses

Moral Education

At High Halden, we teach the children the importance of discussing their behaviour and the effect it has on others. As a result, the children have a good moral compass and are able to discuss moral issues maturely with their peers. As a Church of England primary school, our moral basis is taken from the teachings of Jesus Christ and our school values.  We enjoy discussing the concepts of right and wrong with the children and they are able to talk about their own opinions in these areas as well as linking their understanding of right and wrong to their own behaviour and the behaviour of those around them.

• Investigating values and ethical issues to develop their own moral principles

• Exploring behaviours and their consequences in order to recognise right and wrong and to make right choices for themselves

• Having a range of opportunities to express their own views and understand that others may hold different views or beliefs

Social Education

The development of the children’s social skills is moved on at every opportunity. The children are very involved in community of our school as well as the wider community; working with local and global charities and organisations to raise money and awareness of a variety of needs. Within social development we teach and use the process of democracy, voting for representatives on the Pupil Governing Board as well as giving their opinions for future topics and curriculum changes. Within our social development we also look closely at being safe online; learning about what we share and how we behave online, and what to do if anything happens online that we don't understand or are unsure about.

• Experiencing real life social situations to develop personal qualities and social skills

• Participating in co-operative debate and role play that promotes the skills of conflict resolution

• Appreciating the rights and responsibilities of individuals within the wider social setting (families, school, local and wider communities) to develop understanding of how communities and societies function

Cultural Education

At the heart of cultural development lies the necessity to develop a sense of personal identity, whilst at the same time acquiring awareness, understanding and tolerance regarding the cultural traditions and beliefs of others.  We aim to provide an understanding of cultural traditions and heritage and the ability to appreciate and respond positively to artistic, musical, sporting and cultural opportunities.  

• Exploring their own culture and the culture of others (locally and internationally) to develop understanding and respect for diversity, to challenge assumptions and negative stereotypes

• Participate and respond to a well selected repertoire of cultural media and traditions in order to develop a sense of personal enrichment, an appreciation of culture, human creativity and achievement.

• Having a range of opportunities to express their own particular gifts and talents in music, art and literature in order to develop personal creative qualities