SMSC
Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development
At Fiddlers Lane Primary School, we are committed to supporting the Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) development of every child. SMSC is a vital part of our curriculum and school life and is often described as the “hidden curriculum” – the values, attitudes and experiences children gain through everything we do as a school community.
SMSC is not taught as a stand‑alone subject. Instead, it is woven throughout our curriculum, including RE, PE and PSHE/RSE, and is embedded in our school ethos, daily routines, behaviour expectations and relationships. Through this approach, children experience SMSC development every day.
Our Aims
We aim to nurture confident, responsible and well‑rounded individuals who aspire to be the best version of themselves and are prepared to thrive beyond school. We recognise that all pupils need opportunities to develop spiritually, morally, socially and culturally in order to make sense of the world around them.
Our engaging curriculum helps pupils develop informed and balanced views about world events, beliefs and values. We strive to prepare children to become respectful individuals, lifelong learners and active citizens who can contribute positively to modern British society.
Definitions of SMSC
Spiritual Development
Pupils show spiritual development through:
- Developing and reflecting on beliefs, religious or otherwise
- Respect for others’ feelings, faiths and values
- Enjoyment and fascination in learning about themselves and the world
- Using imagination and creativity in learning
- Reflecting thoughtfully on their experiences
Moral Development
Pupils show moral development through:
- Recognising right and wrong and applying this in their own lives
- Understanding the consequences of their actions
- Exploring moral and ethical issues and offering reasoned views
- Respecting the law and the viewpoints of others
Social Development
Pupils show social development through:
- Using social skills in a range of settings
- Working and socialising with others from different backgrounds
- Cooperating effectively and resolving conflict
- Understanding how communities and society function
Cultural Development
Pupils show cultural development through:
- Understanding and appreciating their own culture and heritage
- Exploring a wide range of cultural influences
- Participating in artistic, musical, sporting and cultural experiences
- Respecting and celebrating diversity locally, nationally and globally
How We Promote SMSC at Fiddlers Lane Primary School
Spiritual Development
We support spiritual development by helping children reflect on their beliefs, develop self‑awareness and show curiosity about the world around them. Our curriculum encourages imagination, creativity and enjoyment in learning, while fostering respect for others.
This is supported through:
- PSHE/RSE lessons
- Celebration assemblies, including achievement awards
- Positive behaviour approaches and restorative conversations
- British Values and themed assemblies
- Zones of Regulation to support emotional understanding
- RE lessons and visits to places of worship
- Celebrations of different faiths and cultures
- Mindfulness and wellbeing activities
Moral Development
We help children to develop a strong sense of right and wrong, understand responsibility for their actions and explore moral and ethical issues with confidence.
This is supported through:
- Clear school rules and expectations
- A consistent behaviour policy
- British Values teaching and assemblies
- PSHE/RSE curriculum
- Recognition, rewards and praise
- School Council and charity work
- Class discussions and reflection opportunities
Social Development
We encourage children to build positive relationships, work collaboratively and take an active role within school and the wider community. Social development supports pupils in understanding democracy, fairness, respect and tolerance.
This is supported through:
- Zones of Regulation to manage feelings and resolve conflict
- School council and pupil voice
- Clubs and after‑school activities
- Trips and residential visits
- Anti‑bullying initiatives
- Targeted interventions to support social skills
- School values
Cultural Development
We celebrate diversity and support children in understanding the rich range of cultures that shape our school, community and country. Children learn about Britain’s democratic system and develop respect for different beliefs, backgrounds and traditions.
This is supported through:
- Curriculum learning across all subjects
- School trips and visiting speakers
- Teaching diversity and inclusion
- Democracy through votes and school council
- Community links and charity work
- Cultural celebrations and enrichment activities
At Fiddlers Lane Primary School, SMSC development is central to everything we do. By providing meaningful experiences and rich opportunities, we help every child grow into a thoughtful, respectful and confident member of society.