Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development

SMSC stands for spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. These principles underpin the values and ethos of Montpelier School and can be seen during lessons, during play and across the wider curriculum.

Spiritual

We explore beliefs and experience and teach children and adults to respect faiths, feelings and values. We promote enjoyment learning about oneself, others and the surrounding world and use imagination and creativity in a purposeful way to enhance learning and personal development. We hope to inculcate amongst children the ability to reflect upon past, present and future issues in order to help make better decisions over time.

Moral

It is imperative that children at Montpelier learn to recognise right and wrong when interpreting personal and others’ actions. We believe in the importance of respecting the law and encourage children to investigate moral and ethical issues before offering reasoned and balanced views.

Social

Montpelier children can use a range of social skills and are taught to appreciate diverse viewpoints. Through school-based programmes that our children participate in, we aim to develop the importance of volunteering and cooperation.

Engagement with the ‘British values’ of democracy, the rule of law, liberty, respect and tolerance are central to the development of children at Montpelier. In all aspects of personal development, we hope to embed the skills of effective conflict resolution as children navigate their way through their lives now and in future.

Cultural

Montpelier is an international school, and the appreciation of cultural influences is part of its everyday fabric. However, we want our children to appreciate the value of cultural diversity once they leave the school and perhaps enter settings and workplaces which are more monocultural in their outlook.

We believe it is important to appreciate the role of Britain’s parliamentary system, past and present. Again, understanding, accepting, respecting and celebrating diversity is one of Montpelier’s strengths and this is most successful when participating in culture opportunities in and beyond school.