SMSC Statement 2022

‘At Thornhill Lees we celebrate our faith diversity and provide a safe environment where our children are happy to learn. We are kind, caring and respectful to others. We aim to inspire future generations of our school and community to become lifelong learners.’

Thornhill Lees CE (VC) Infant and Nursery School curriculum encompasses all aspects of Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Education and the promotion of British values. This curriculum is under constant review so that we can take into account our rapidly changing world and learning opportunities which arise under this heading. Thornhill Lees CE (VC) follows equal opportunities guidance which guarantees that there will be no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar. Our whole school community lives out our core values of respect, kindness, aspiration, caring, community, diversity and happiness through everything we say and do in school. 

Spiritual development is concerned with developing the non-material aspects of life, focusing on personal insight, values, meaning and purpose. Beliefs that help provide perspective on life may be rooted in a religion, but equally may not. Children explore the fundamental British Value of exploring and respecting the values and beliefs of others. 

Moral development is largely about choices, behaviour and how you live your life. It's also about personal and societal values, understanding the reasons for them and airing and understanding disagreements. Children develop the fundamental British Values of investigating moral values and ethical issues, and recognising and applying right and wrong.

Social development shows pupils working together effectively, relating well to adults and participating in the local community.  It also includes the fundamental British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. 

Cultural development is about understanding and feeling comfortable in a variety of cultures and experiencing a range of cultural activities (for example art, theatre, travel, concerts). Children develop the fundamental British Value of exploring, understanding and tolerance regarding the diversity of cultural traditions and beliefs of others.