Importance of Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural
Development in Church schools
SMSC, particularly spiritual development, lies at the heart of
the curriculum of a Church school, where it takes place in the
context of Christian values. Schools play an important part in
helping young people learn the difference between right and wrong,
helping them to develop sound social skills and to make a positive
contribution in community life; they also help young people to
recognise the value and richness of cultural diversity in Britain.
Church schools provide an atmosphere and understanding that
encourages respect and acceptance of cultural diversity,
although their commitment to the development and awareness and
understanding of their Christian and cultural heritage should be
explicit.
Collective worship
This provides opportunities for spiritual development enabling
pupils to celebrate goodness and beauty and to express thankfulness
for the joy of being alive; it gives time for silent reflection and
exploration of inner space and provides a rich variety of forms of
expression through music, drama, story and art. Classroom teachers
can build opportunities for reflection, stillness and quiet times;
for pupils to share experiences - good or bad - and to use stories
to promote spiritual development.
SMSC aspect of inspections
Church schools are inspected on how well the Christian character
of the school supports the spiritual, moral, social and cultural
development of all learners whether they are Christian, of other
faiths, or of none.