SMSC at St Michael’s (Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural Education)
At St Michael’s, our approach to social, moral, spiritual, and cultural (SMSC) education is rooted in our Christian vision: to create opportunities for every pupil to flourish and ‘grow in body, mind, and spirit.’ This vision drives our commitment to nurturing the whole child through a broad, inclusive curriculum that inspires thoughtful, compassionate, and confident individuals.
Social Education
Social development is central to our mission. We cultivate pupils’ interpersonal skills, empathy, and capacity to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through a vibrant range of experiences—from the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the Archbishop’s Young Leaders Award to the Year 9 Curriculum Enrichment programme—pupils engage in volunteering, leadership, and teamwork. In the classroom, approaches such as Kagan cooperative learning foster respectful discussion, peer support, and active participation.
Our pupils are also guided to uphold British values: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance. Educational visits to places of worship and cultural landmarks further enhance their understanding of community diversity. Social education at St Michael’s equips young people with the confidence and awareness to contribute positively to society and thrive as thoughtful citizens in modern Britain.
Moral Education
Our moral education empowers pupils to discern right from wrong, understand the consequences of their actions, and engage critically with ethical questions. Through PSHE, RE, and dedicated enrichment programmes, students explore themes of justice, fairness, and global responsibility.
Our Behaviour for Learning policy embodies Christian principles of forgiveness and reconciliation, with pupils encouraged to treat one another with dignity and respect. These values form the foundation of a community that is both principled and inclusive.
Spiritual Education
Spirituality is the heartbeat of our school. Grounded in our vision for pupils to ‘grow in body, mind, and spirit,’ we provide experiences that invite deep reflection, connection, and discovery. Daily worship offers moments for prayer and contemplation, encouraging pupils to explore their beliefs and values within a supportive environment.
Across the curriculum—particularly in RE, science, geography, and the arts—learners encounter awe and wonder, sparking curiosity about the world and their place within it. Through our Character for Life programme, enrichment days, and creative opportunities, pupils develop emotional literacy, courageous advocacy, and spiritual resilience. We celebrate silence, diversity, and differing worldviews, fostering respect for others while nurturing personal identity. At St Michael’s, spiritual education is not confined to a subject—it's woven into the daily rhythm of school life.
Cultural Education
Cultural education at St Michael’s prepares pupils for life in a rich and varied society. We nurture an appreciation for the multitude of cultures that shape our world and encourage pupils to celebrate both their own heritage and that of others.
Opportunities such as international visits to France, Germany, and Poland, participation in mock elections, and events like Bang Drum immerse pupils in global perspectives and democratic values. Through our Living Education Programme and Enrichment Days, learners explore cultural diversity while engaging with the arts, music, and drama.
We champion British values and promote a spirit of open-mindedness, ensuring our pupils develop into respectful individuals who are ready to contribute meaningfully to a vibrant, inclusive society.
Our Commitment
Our SMSC provision fully aligns with the expectations of the Department for Education and Ofsted’s personal development framework. Through a whole-school approach, we empower every pupil to become a thoughtful, compassionate, and active global citizen.
