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British Values &and Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural learning (SMSC)

The broader curriculum includes how we approach British Values, identified by the British Government as: 

  • The value of democracy 

  • The rule of law 

  • Individual liberty 

  • Mutual respect and tolerance to those of different faiths and beliefs 

With this a transferring of: 

  • An understanding of how citizens can influence decision-making through the democratic process 

  • An appreciation that living under the rule of law protects individual citizens and is essential for their wellbeing and safety 

  • An understanding that there is a separation of power between the executive and the judiciary and that some public bodies such as the police and army can be held to account through parliament, others such as the courts maintain independence 

  • An understanding that the freedom to choose and hold other faiths and beliefs is protected in law 

  • An acceptance that other people having different faiths and or beliefs to oneself (or having none) should be accepted and tolerated, and should not be the cause of prejudicial or discriminatory behaviour 

  • An understanding of the importance of identifying and combating discrimination 

 

This is an area of particular focus, as it is the understanding of processing of the world around us which forms opinions and actions. The possible lack of empathy or social understanding could be the factor which impacts upon a student having an understanding or acceptance of elements of our core British Values. This can lead to social isolation, socially unacceptable behaviour or law braking. 

 

We promote British Values throughout the curriculum and challenge our students to think more deeply about their place in society and the expectations placed upon them. PSHE lessons, tutor times and reflection times all consider the respect and tolerance of other people, their faiths and beliefs and how to work respectfully with differences of opinion or view. 

 

Our students are further taught how to remain safe through an ever-changing world, where information is available at the touch of a button and opinions are thrust upon us through social media and sensationalised reporting. We monitor online activity and support learning outcomes to ensure our students are aware of the dangers of grooming and extremism. 

 

Social, moral, spiritual and cultural learning (SMSC) is embedded into the PSHE and PGW curriculum and scaffolded development takes place during social times. We explore different aspects of society and how these, form a rich and diverse global and local community. Students will have further opportunities to embed their knowledge and understanding through experimental learning, school trips and activities. 

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