Spiritual, Moral, Social & Cultural Development
Spiritual, Moral, Social & Cultural Development (SMSC)
At Nicol Mere Primary School, we are committed to fostering a caring, inclusive environment where every child can flourish both academically and personally. Central to our mission is the promotion of spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development (SMSC) — woven throughout every aspect of school life.
SMSC isn’t confined to a single subject; it is an ethos embedded in our curriculum, assemblies, extra-curricular activities, classroom interactions, and the way we treat one another. Our goal is to support children in becoming confident, considerate, and active members of society, equipped with the values and skills they need to succeed.
By embracing SMSC across our curriculum and daily school life, we aim to develop thoughtful, respectful, and culturally aware pupils ready to contribute positively to the wider world.
Spiritual Development
We create opportunities for children to reflect, wonder, and explore their beliefs and the world around them through:
Whole school assemblies
“Awe and Wonder” learning moments
Reflections during lessons and assemblies
PSHE and RE curriculum discussions
Mindfulness and guided relaxation
Class circle time
Visits and residentials (e.g., PGL, Hinning House)
Leadership opportunities (e.g., School & Eco Council, Play Leaders)
Moral Development
We help pupils understand right from wrong and take responsibility for their actions. Opportunities include:
School and class rules
Internet safety lessons and E-Safety Week
Anti-Bullying Week and NSPCC workshops
Bikeability and Fire Safety talks
Visits from Community Police Officers
Charity work (e.g., Shoebox Appeal)
Celebration assemblies and reward systems
Teaching British values and citizenship
Social Development
We encourage cooperation, teamwork, and respect through:
Sporting teams and inter-school events
Pupil leadership roles (e.g., School Council, monitors, play leaders)
Fundraising and community events (e.g., Carol singing, Remembrance Day)
School performances and productions
World Book Day and themed curriculum weeks
Transition activities and visits (e.g., Year 6 to secondary schools)
PSHE curriculum and in-class assemblies
PTFA-led events and home-school partnerships
Cultural Development
Children at Nicol Mere explore and celebrate the richness of different cultures, traditions, and beliefs through:
Assemblies on cultural celebrations and global events
Visits to places of worship (church, mosque)
French lessons and cultural ambassador visits
Participation in events such as St George’s Day, Chinese New Year, and Remembrance Day
Theatre and orchestra visits
Subject links in RE, History, Geography, Art, Music and Dance
Use of artefacts and cultural storytelling in the classroom
