Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development (SMSC)

Intent:

At Goldsmith Primary Academy, SMSC development underpins everything we do. It is not a standalone subject but an integral part of our curriculum, culture and community. Our intent is to nurture pupils who are thoughtful, respectful, and socially responsible — individuals who understand their place in the world and the impact they can have on others. Through our ASPIRE values and the Windsor Academy Trust mission to unlock academic and personal potential, we aim to develop pupils who are curious about beliefs, committed to doing what is right, confident in social situations, and appreciative of the diverse cultural world around them.

We ensure that our SMSC provision prepares pupils for life in modern Britain, embedding the British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. We want every child to leave Goldsmith as a kind, respectful and well-rounded citizen, ready to thrive in the next stage of their education and beyond.

How do we delivery SMSC?

SMSC at Goldsmith is woven throughout our curriculum and wider school life. It is lived, not laminated. Every subject — from English to PE, Science to RE — provides opportunities for pupils to explore moral choices, cultural diversity and their own sense of identity.

• Spiritual development is nurtured through RE, assemblies, PSHE, music, and our curiosity-driven EYFS provision, where children are encouraged to wonder, reflect and ask big questions about life and the world around them.

• Moral development is promoted through our ASPIRE values, behaviour curriculum and restorative approach, helping pupils to understand right from wrong, take responsibility for their actions, and make ethical decisions.

• Social development is fostered through collaboration, leadership and community engagement — from school council and peer mentoring to performances, competitions and fundraising for local charities. Pupils learn to work cooperatively and value the importance of community.

• Cultural development is celebrated through our enriched curriculum, including Black History Month, Inter-Faith Day, Spanish singing in KS1, arts showcases, and our international Apple Distinguished School partnerships, which connect pupils to the wider world through technology and global learning.

Our SMSC provision is also enhanced through Jigsaw PSHE, Kapow RE and Music, and cross-curricular opportunities to reflect, debate and create. Assemblies are planned around half-termly themes linked to the ASPIRE values, British Values and key global events, giving pupils a moral and philosophical lens through which to explore the world.

Impact:

Our SMSC curriculum ensures pupils develop into empathetic, confident and informed citizens. They can articulate their values, show respect for diversity and demonstrate a strong sense of community and belonging. Evidence of impact can be seen in pupils’ behaviour, attitudes and engagement, as well as in the warmth and inclusivity of our school culture.

Through strong SMSC education, our children:

• Show respect, kindness and compassion towards others.

• Have the confidence to express their views while respecting those of others.

• Understand how their choices affect themselves and the wider community.

• Value and celebrate the diverse cultures, languages and beliefs that make up our community.

• Leave Goldsmith with a strong moral compass, ready to make positive contributions to society.

At Goldsmith Primary Academy, SMSC is at the heart of our mission — ensuring every child dreams big, rises academically and ASPIREs to make a difference in their community and beyond.