What is SMSC?
SMSC is an acronym for spiritual, moral, social and cultural. SMSC is mandatory for schools in England and allows them to demonstrate that they are actively promoting British values. At Burlington House School we support a holistic education of each student and attempt to contribute towards the development of these key four areas.
Spiritual
At Burlington House School we explore the beliefs and experience of others while identifying and respecting the values of individuals and groups. We support and encourage self-discovery, creativity, reflection and imagination.
Moral
Burlington House School’s ethos and teaching helps pupils to understand differing views of what is ‘right’ and ‘wrong’, while supporting the rule of English and criminal law. Some of our goals include helping students to respect the civil and criminal law, distinguish between right and wrong, approach ethical and moral issues and to present balanced views.
Social
Burlington House School uses social skills in different contexts. We emphasise the importance of working well with others, teach the ability to resolve conflicts and attempt to understand how communities work effectively together.
Cultural
Burlington House School encourages and promotes the respect of one’s own culture and the culture of others. We study cultural influences, embark on cultural opportunities and seek to understand, accept and respect the diversity of others.
A Holistic SMSC Approach
Burlington House School takes a coherent whole school approach, including curriculum subjects, school life and other activities. This can take shape in the form of teamwork during Games, learning about planned product obsolescence in Design Technology, studying the effects of climate change in Geography, fund raising, a school lunch menu with dishes from a specific country, residential trips in the UK and overseas, educational day trips, school council elections, form groups regularly presenting a gathering (school assembly) to the whole school, and drama productions.
Our approach is evident in our prefects selling poppies during November, competitions, a house system (Bishop House and Palace House), themed days, guest speakers, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award, to name just a few other examples. We will continue to promote the very best social, moral, spiritual and cultural development in our students through a quality SMSC curriculum.
