Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC)
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Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC)
At Canbury, we believe that education is about more than just academic excellence; it is about the supporting of the whole person. While our PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic) lessons provide students with the practical tools for modern life, our dedicated SMSC Hour for Year 7 and 8 offers something deeper.
Every week, our younger students step away from the traditional syllabus to spend one hour exploring the “Big Questions” that shape our world and our character.
The transition into secondary school is a pivotal time for identity. By dedicating a specific hour to SMSC, we ensure that our students don’t just “learn” values, they interrogate and inhabit them. This curriculum links directly to our school culture, fostering empathy, curiosity, and a sense of belonging.
Our Four Pillars of Development
Our Four Pillars of Development
Spiritual
Encouraging a sense of awe and wonder about the world, fostering self-reflection and personal belief.
Moral
Exploring right and wrong, the importance of integrity, and the ethical dilemmas of the modern age.
Social
Developing the "human skills" of collaboration, conflict resolution, and understanding British Values.
Cultural
Celebrating our diverse heritage, exploring the arts, and preparing for life in a global society.
What does an SMSC lesson look like?
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Ethics: Debating the morality of AI or environmental justice.
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Cultural: Exploring global traditions, music, and food to broaden their horizons beyond the local community.
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Citizenship: Investigating how they can influence the world around them through social action and democracy.
By the end of Year 8, our goal is for every Canbury student to be confident in their own skin, compassionate toward others, and culturally curious. This hour ensures that when our students eventually leave us, they do so not just with a folder of certificates, but with a strong “moral compass” to guide them through life.