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Social, Moral, Spiritual and cultural development

 

The National Curriculum subjects and those beyond its parameters provide opportunities for children to explore their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.  Our curriculum offers these opportunities beyond the Religious Education and Personal, Social and Health education curriculums. Our school drivers (Independence, Curiosity, Knowledge & Understanding), our behaviour rules (Ready, Respectful, Safe – see the behaviour policy for more detail), trips, visitors, enrichment opportunities and assemblies all make a significant contribution to this aspect of school life and SMSC permeates the entire curriculum.   

  • Social development 

Children are taught that they play a valuable role in many societies (e.g., family, class, school, local community, national and global) and that along with these roles, they can expect to enjoy certain rights while fulfilling social responsibilities.  Being able to relate to others and work with them for the common good towards an agreed goal helps create a sense of belonging and a desire to participate.  This in turn ensures they will remain active citizens of the world with a wider view beyond their personal circle. 

  • Moral development 

A sense of morality is vital in an increasingly morally ambiguous world.  Children must nurture their sense of right and wrong from an early age and become practised in calling out morally questionable behaviour while accepting that morality can create personal conflict.  They should be taught that their own decisions have consequences and that they may be called upon to reflect on these choices.  This is especially pertinent when their choices have impacted negatively on others and restorative justice is required. 

  • Spiritual development 

Spiritual development relates to fundamental questions about the meaning and purpose of life which affect everyone and is not dependent on a religious affiliation.  For children, curiosity about themselves and the world around them, asking “why” or “what if” can be powerful tools to promote and explore their spiritual lives and contribute positively to their wellbeing. 

  • Cultural Development 

Ipswich is a diverse and vibrant community and has been so for time immemorial.  As an important port town, Ipswich has historically been influenced by its many visitors and settlers and continues to be so as we have morphed into a global village.  At Broke Hall we capitalise on opportunities to explore and embrace different cultures – both current and historic, how we are influenced by them both subtly and overtly and how culture continues to change.