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.
In November 2014, the DfE stated that ‘Maintained schools have obligations under section 78 of the Education Act (2002) which requires schools, as part of a broad and balanced curriculum, to promote the spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical development of pupils at the school and of society.’ SMSC therefore closely link with The Prevent Duty. For further information, please see the associated policies.
How do we actively promote SMSC development at Castle Hill School?
Everything that we do at Castle Hill has links to or comes directly from SMSC development aims. As a school we believe strongly in promoting the development of the whole child by giving them the very best opportunities to lead happy, fulfilled lives, playing their part in society.
In addition to the philosophical significance of SMSC, the teaching and learning of SMSC awareness, skills, and knowledge is promoted through systematically planned and assessed programmes of work. SMSC underpins and permeates every area of the curriculum. SMSC Development is further promoted through our work towards supporting Wellbeing and Unicef’s Rights Respecting School Award.
The journey to SMSC Gold standard
Our initial efforts to celebrate our silver award success by going for gold started almost immediately. We responded to the recommendations of the panel with haste and set about implementing change.
We consider ways to further improve the contribution of the School Council, which could include closer liaison with Governors; enhancing enterprise activities and learning walks to review provision. Reviewed curriculum provision in light of the statutory guidance on relationships education, relationships and sex education and health education. Reviewed the SMSC policy in light of the award and identified ways to implement these changes throughout our community, in line with local and national guidance and to promote innovation and best practice.
In April 2021 we were confident that all of the above have been achieved and shared throughout the school and with the whole community. Although, inevitably, some of this work remained unfinished or underwent a delay in implementation because of the response to the coronavirus pandemic. But, despite this we were overjoyed to have satisfied all aspects of the verification process and were enormously proud to accept the gold standard award.
(read about our journey, including overcoming barriers during the pandemic in this blog…https://www.youngcitizens.org/blog/it-supported-our-families-in-critical-times-how-the-smsc-quality-mark-brought-the-castle-hill-school-community-together/)
