SMSC at Penryn College

SMSC = Spiritual, Moral, Social, Cultural

“The human being is not born as it is but grows and develops over time into an autonomous person.”  – Kant

At Penryn College we value each pupil as an individual and believe in supporting them to achieve the best they can. It is also important that we take the responsibility to develop our students by helping them grow and develop as people and prepare them for the adult world.

“SMSC development is crucial for individual pupils and for society as a whole. Most teachers would see it as the heart of what education is about: helping pupils grow and develop as people.”  – Ofsted

We wholeheartedly believe that we should help develop all pupils, and SMSC plays a crucial part in doing this. At Penryn College, we link to SMSC through lessons, assemblies, tutor time, Voting Voice, and through the ethos of the school.

What does SMSC Cover?

Spiritual development is not only about religious exploration or faith – which is covered in Religious Education – the spiritual in SMSC is about developing the non-material aspects of life: focusing on personal insight, values, meaning and purpose. Beliefs that help provide perspective on life may or may not link to religious beliefs. Creativity and imagination is important, as is a sense of fascination, awe and wonder.

Morals are about the way you live and the choices you make. Considering the choices in life which might be right or wrong. Sessions in tutor time, assemblies, or in class, might explore the consequences of decisions, other people’s needs, and ways of learning from experience.

Social development shows pupils working together effectively, relating well to adults and participating in the local community. This element of SMSC includes a significant area of personal growth, ranging from being involved in things within society or in school.

Cultural development is about understanding different people, cultures, and beliefs. This links across all subject areas, and involves looking for opportunities for pupils to experience creative and expressive arts. Within and beyond the school, valuing cultural diversity and challenging racism is important.