SMSC Guidance

Congleton High School recognises that the Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) element of students’ education is crucial to their development as an individual, allowing them to take their rightful place in the community as local, national and global citizens.

SMSC is about the values students are encouraged to hold, their attitude towards learning, knowledge and society. SMSC is fundamental in preparing students for society and they are helped to develop positive attitudes and beliefs by being given opportunities to:

• Develop spiritual values and reasoned personal and moral values
• Consider the diverse nature of society, developing their understanding and respect for those with different religions, beliefs and ways of life
• Value everyone equally
• Develop personal relationships, based on trust, self-esteem and mutual respect
• Become active, responsible citizens in a democratic society
• Develop an appreciation of human achievements and aspirations
• Develop an understanding of the world in which they live and the interdependence of individuals, groups, nations and the environment

At Congleton High School, SMSC permeates the work that we do. Through SMSC, we seek to develop attitudes and values that will enable students to become responsible and caring members of society. We provide students with the opportunity for spiritual reflection and encourage them to explore the fundamental questions of life, including their own personal existence, journey and purpose. We provide students with a curriculum that enables them to develop a knowledge and understanding of diverse cultures, particularly those within their own society.

We seek to foster an attitude of tolerance and value towards those from a culture and background different from their own. They are encouraged to develop capacity to tackle moral and spiritual dilemmas and to try to reach independent judgements, which reflect universal human principles. We also expect students to develop questioning, enquiring minds and learn how to express their ideas appropriately.

As a School we are aware of our collective responsibilities towards SMSC and we:

• Ensure that all staff are aware of their role in developing students’ interpersonal skills, self-esteem and in preparing them for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life.
• Celebrate student achievement, foster a sense of community and involve students as active participants as much as possible. This is demonstrated through a wide range of events such as our annual GCSE, Sixth Form and Sports Awards Evenings. There are also termly rewards assemblies and rewards trips for all year groups. Students are also encouraged to contribute to the School community by developing their leadership roles as Student Leaders, Reading Mentors, Homework mentors, Sports Leaders and democratically elected School Council Representatives.
• Ensure students have information about all extra-curricular and enrichment activities.
• Ensure that the Citizenship lessons provide opportunities for discussion and that there are opportunities for reflection in assemblies.

To learn more about how we support and guide our students through the various aspects of SMSC, please see the relevant sections in the menu to the left of the page.

SMSC Provision at CHS