Spiritual, Moral, Social and Culture Development
At Bowman we recognise that the Spiritual, Moral, Social and Culture development (SMSC) of pupils plays an important part in their ability to learn and achieve. We therefore aim to provide an education that provides pupils with opportunities to explore and develop their own values and beliefs, spiritual awareness, high standards of personal behaviour, a positive caring attitude towards other people, an understanding of their social and cultural traditions and an appreciation of the diversity and richness of other cultures.
Spiritual
Spiritual development gives our pupils a sense of identity, self-worth, personal insight, meaning and purpose. Our pupils are actively encouraged to develop their knowledge, skills, and understanding that they need to foster their own wellbeing. Throughout our curriculum there is a strong focus on pupils developing a sense of self, seeing their unique potential and understanding their own strengths and weaknesses. We encourage the will to achieve, and inspire pupils to be curious about themselves and the world around them. In order for pupils to achieve spiritual development we incorporate a multi faith RE Curriculum which includes visits to places of worship. We have whole school themed assemblies and class presentations which provide pupils with opportunities to reflect on their experiences and learning as well as assessment for learning opportunities.
Moral
Moral development is about pupils developing their own framework of moral values which regulate their behaviour. It is also about the development of pupils’ understanding of society’s shared and agreed values. Bowman actively encourages our pupils to develop their knowledge, skills and understanding that they need in order to make responsible moral decisions and act on them. In order to support pupils with their moral development Bowman has established positive behaviour management strategies, which includes the creation of class rules incorporating the will to do what is right and supports pupils to reflect on the consequences of their actions. Pupils are encouraged to take on age appropriate responsibilities and actively take part in circle time and PSHE activities with a strong sense of moral value. Our Anti-Bullying week enforces the understanding of the difference between right and wrong, and our participation in a British Values Scheme allows pupils to develop their understanding into the wider world.
Social
Social development is about young people working effectively with each other and participating successfully in the community as a whole. It is about the development of the skills and personal qualities necessary for living and working together. Bowman actively encourages pupils to develop their knowledge, skills and understanding that they need in order to make an active contribution to the democratic process in each of their communities. By encouraging pupils to participate in a variety of trips and residential visits we focus on and encourage pupils to have a sense of belonging, a willingness to participate and work with others forming positive relationships and understanding. We also have a strong ethos on charity support, which develops pupils understanding of society as a whole and the needs of others. We ensure that our pupils know their rights and responsibilities and understand the importance of respect within the school, local and national community.
Cultural
Cultural development is about pupils’ understanding their own culture and other cultures in their town, region and in the country as a whole. It is about understanding and feeling comfortable in a variety of cultures, and being able to operate in the emerging world culture of shared experiences provided by television, travel and the internet. Bowman actively encourages pupils to develop their knowledge, skills and understanding that they need in order to appreciate and contribute towards culture. We encourage pupils to respect their own culture and traditions, and to understand the importance of learning and respecting other cultures around them. Pupils learn and develop their understanding of culture through various curriculum opportunities, through RE and PSHE we incorporate an in depth look into a selection of religious festivals and cultural traditions.
