St Vincent's Catholic Primary School

“Caritas Christi Urget Nos –

The love of Christ urges us to care for each other and strive for excellence in everything we do.”

Spiritual, Moral, Social & Cultural Development

At St Vincent’s, we have a holistic approach to learning that aims to expand and nurture each child’s academic and personal development. By embedding the aspects of SMSC throughout our curriculum, we aim to help develop healthy, independent and responsible members of society. Opportunities to promote pupils’ development in these areas are provided in religious education, whole school assemblies, themed days, circle time and through cross-curricular PSHE sessions. We also encourage all of our pupils to play a positive role in contributing to school life and the wider community through class & school councils, fundraising and involvement in community activities.

Spiritual development
This is the development of a sense of identity, belonging, self-worth, meaning and purpose. Children are able to develop their own personality and have respect for different people’s feelings and values. They are continuously encouraged to use their imagination and creativity in their learning, and to reflect on their experiences.

Moral development
This is about acquiring an understanding of right and wrong, and being able to apply this understanding within and outside school.  Moral development also includes pupils’ appreciation that different people hold different views and values on subjects, and being able to articulate their own opinions. Children understand society’s values and develop their understanding of the consequences of their actions which will then encourage them to make reasoned decisions.

Social development
This is the development of pupils’ ability to work collaboratively with each other and participate successfully in the community as a whole. Pupils develop skills that are necessary to be able to problem solve, resolve conflicts and to create successful relationships.

Cultural Development
This is the development of pupils’ understanding and appreciation of their own and others’ cultures and beliefs.  Pupils develop an understanding and respect for cultural diversity and reflect this in their attitudes and behaviours around school and within the wider community.

Look at our blog below to see what Cultural development looks like in our school