A Guide to Developing Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) Thinking in Lessons
Introduction
In our Mission Statement it says that ‘This community will be rooted in Christian values, creating a moral and spiritual environment valuable to those of all faiths or none.’ This statement drives SMSC at Wren. It is the responsibility of all teachers to seek out opportunities to develop SMSC in their lessons.
Lesson Activities
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Aims of Teaching in Lessons are for Students to:
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Development of Students is shown in Lessons by:
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Spiritual
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- develop an understanding of relationships and attachments with those near and far
- reflect upon questions concerning life, change, death and the after-life
- reflect upon the existence and nature of God
- engage in activities which involve careful listening and reflection
- develop an understanding of their own feelings and beliefs
- engage in activities which involve questioning, creating, empathising and imagining
- develop an appreciation of the natural world and the wonder of human existence
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- ability to be reflective about their own beliefs, religious or otherwise, that inform their perspective on life and their interest in and respect for different people’s faiths, feelings and values
- reflecting upon the existence of God and coming to a considered view on this subject
- sense of enjoyment and fascination in learning about themselves, others and the world around them
- use of imagination and creativity in their learning
- willingness to reflect on their experiences.
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Moral
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- understand the moral values which underpin life in school and in our wider society
- show responsibility for their own learning and personal development
- recognise the importance of doing the right thing and the effect of their own behaviour upon others
- recognise and work with others who need support
- show an understanding of the principles of equality of opportunity
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- ability to recognise the difference between right and wrong, readily apply this understanding in their own lives and, in so doing, respect the law
- understanding of the consequences of their behaviour and actions
- interest in investigating and offering reasoned views about moral and ethical issues, and being able to understand and appreciate the viewpoints of others on these issues.
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Social
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- understand the importance of co-operation and teamwork
- develop the ability to work effectively in pairs and groups
- develop the skills needed to communicate effectively
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- use of a range of social skills in different contexts, including working and socialising with students from different religious, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds
- willingness to participate in a variety of social settings, including by volunteering, cooperating with others and being able to resolve conflicts effectively
- acceptance and engagement with the values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. Students develop and demonstrate skills and attitudes that will allow them to contribute positively to life in modern Britain.
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Cultural
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- appreciate others' points of view
- understand others' backgrounds
- enjoy and value the exploration of cultural diversity
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- ability to recognise the difference between right and wrong, readily apply this understanding in their own lives and, in so doing, respect the law
- understanding of the consequences of their behaviour and actions
- interest in investigating and offering reasoned views about moral and ethical issues, and being able to understand and appreciate the viewpoints of others on these issues.
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