SMSC

Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development

Underpinning our formally taught curriculum, we aim to develop the Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural development of all children at Sandcross Primary School. Through assemblies, educational visits, curriculum enrichment events and linking with schools, both locally and in contrasting settings, we aim to ensure children become valuable members of both their immediate and global community. We are a 'Healthy School' and through Science, PE, PSHE and other areas of our curriculum we promote both physical and emotional well-being.

Spiritual

Explore beliefs and experience; respect values; discover oneself and the surrounding world; use imagination and creativity.

As a school we believe that children need to arrive at their own personal spiritual and moral beliefs and values, through understanding and questioning. As in all other subject areas, the teaching of R.E. must be related to the ages and maturity of the children being taught. No member of staff will promote one religion or set of beliefs in preference to any other and the beliefs of each child and every family will be respected. Parents will be fully informed of their rights to withdraw their child from Religious Education lessons. However in line with the principles established by Surrey SACRE, the curriculum will be structured to try to ensure all pupils will be able to attend RE teaching.

Moral

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

Though our restorative approach to any behavioural or relationship issues within our school, we encourage children to reflect on right and wrong decisions. We will always discuss issues with a child if their behaviour may not have followed our principles or deviated from our school rule – ‘We show kindness and respect to everyone.’. Through our assemblies and in lessons, the children in our school will consider both 'real-life' and hypothetical dilemmas that face people in our world.

Social

Use social skills in different contexts; work well with others; resolve conflicts; understand how communities work.

We encourage children of all ages to work together within our school, whether it be at break time, lunchtime or through mentoring activities where older children might be helping younger children to learn to read better, learn their tables or acquire more advanced skills.

Cultural

Appreciate cultural influences; participate in culture opportunities; understand, accept, respect and celebrate diversity.

We encourage children to celebrate diversity within our own school community and beyond. We make full use of both children and staff who are enthusiastic to talk to others about their own faiths and cultures.

Examples of spiritually enhancing activities at Sandcross  Primary School:

• Regular assemblies led by Rev. George Watt and Rev. Anita Colpus with a link to Christianity and moral issues
• All year groups will follow a Personal, Social and Health Education curriculum that is supported by our Social, Emotional Aspects of Learning agenda
• Parents and community members to talk to the children about their jobs and other areas of interest or expertise

Promoting British Values

Please see the 'Visions & Values' tab under "About Us" from the home page.