Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development

Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development

As a whole school, we aim to provide a progressive programme of activities that develop and explore Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural themes. SMSC is the ethical and moral underpinning of everything that happens in school and as such is embedded in our curriculum. We try to educate students to become rounded, balanced individuals able to participate fully as citizens and behave responsibly. It is hoped that our students will gain strong moral values underlying self- respect and a respect for others while continuing to develop open minds. We also aim to develop SMSC through behaviour, expectations and our attitudes in school.

Our students’ spiritual development is shown by their:

•Beliefs which inform their views on life and their interest and respect for different peoples’ feelings and values.

•Sense of enjoyment and fascination in learning about themselves, others and the world around them

•Creativity and imagination in their learning

•Willingness to reflect on their experiences We aim to give students the opportunity to explore values and beliefs, and the way in which they affect people’s’ lives. Students are encouraged to explore and develop what animates themselves and others, while reflecting and learning from reflection.

Our students’ moral development is shown by their:

•Ability to recognise the difference between right and wrong and their ability to apply this to their own lives

•Understanding of the consequences of their actions Interest in investigating, and offered sensible views about moral and ethical issues

•Ability to respect the law and rules At Oakley College, we aim to provide a clear moral code as a basis for behaviour which is promoted consistently through all aspects of the school.

Our students’ social development is shown by their:

•Use of a range of social skills in different contexts,

•Willingness to participate in a variety of social settings, cooperating with others and being able to resolve conflicts effectively

•Interest in and understanding of the way communities and societies function At Oakley College, we develop a sense of family and community, with common, inclusive values ensuring that everyone can flourish.

Our students’ cultural development is shown by their:

Appreciation of cultural influences; appreciation of the role of Spain/Britain’s parliamentary systems; participation in culture opportunities; understand, accept, respect and celebrate diversity.

•Understanding and appreciation of the wide range of cultural influences that have shaped their own heritage

•Willingness to participate in, and respond to artistic, musical, sporting, mathematical, technological, scientific and cultural opportunities

•Willingness to appreciate cultural differences

•Interest in exploring, understanding of, and respect for cultural diversity and the extent to which they understand, accept, respect and celebrate diversity, as shown by their attitudes towards different religious, ethnic and socio-economic groups in the local, national and global communities.

We provide opportunities for students to explore their own cultural assumptions and values. Opportunities are provided for students to participate in literature, drama, music, arts, crafts and other cultural events. Students’ cultural awareness is extended by visiting theatres, museums, gallery visits, and various trips.