SMSC and British Values
At Harper Green School, we are committed to developing happy, successful and well-rounded young people who are prepared for life in modern Britain. Through our curriculum, Personal Development programme and wider school life, students develop their Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) understanding while learning and demonstrating the fundamental British Values.
These values and experiences help students become respectful, responsible and active members of their school, their local community and wider society.
Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development (SMSC)
SMSC development is embedded throughout school life and encourages students to:
- Develop self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence.
- Understand the difference between right and wrong.
- Respect others and appreciate different viewpoints.
- Build positive relationships and work collaboratively.
- Develop an understanding of different cultures, faiths and beliefs.
- Make informed and responsible decisions.
- Prepare for life beyond school as active and responsible citizens.
British Values
The Government expects all schools to actively promote the fundamental British Values, as set out in the Prevent Strategy. At Harper Green School, these values are embedded throughout our curriculum and wider school life.
The five fundamental British Values are:
- Democracy – contributing to decision-making and having a voice.
- The Rule of Law – understanding the importance of rules and laws in keeping everyone safe.
- Individual Liberty – making responsible choices and exercising freedom within the law.
- Mutual Respect – treating others with kindness and respecting different viewpoints.
- Tolerance of Those with Different Faiths and Beliefs – understanding, respecting and appreciating different religions, cultures and beliefs.
The examples below highlight some of the ways in which SMSC and the fundamental British Values are promoted across Harper Green School.
Curriculum
Our curriculum prepares students for life in today's multicultural British society. Through a broad range of subjects, students develop key knowledge and skills, including financial awareness, effective reading and writing, collaboration and discussion, helping them to research ideas and concepts while developing respect for others and the world around them.
Collective Worship and Assemblies
Our daily acts of collective worship and assemblies promote the school's values of Listen, Engage and Respect. Each week follows a different theme, exploring topics linked to SMSC, British Values and Personal Development. These themes are then explored further through Character Education activities, while students' achievements and successes are celebrated through half-termly rewards assemblies.
PSHE and Character Education
Mutual respect is taught through PSHE and Character Education, both formally through planned learning and informally throughout the school day. Students are encouraged to understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms responsibly and are taught how to do so safely, including through online safety education and PSHE lessons.
RE
Religious Education promotes tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs by helping students develop an understanding of religious diversity and the beliefs and practices of the faiths represented across the United Kingdom.
Physical Education
The PE curriculum promotes the importance of fair play, following and developing rules, celebrating and rewarding success, accepting defeat positively, and participating in activities that encourage cooperation, teamwork and inclusion for all.
Prefects and our School Ambassadors
Our school promotes democratic processes through the selection of Prefects, Senior Prefects, the Head Boy and Head Girl, and through the election of School Council members. The School Council and Year Councils encourage students to share their views, represent their peers and contribute positively to school life, helping them understand the importance of democracy and active participation.