This document explains the meaning of SMSC and maps the units in the Geography scheme of work to Ofsted's SMSC descriptors. Within this, it also shows which of our units support schools in their promotion of the fundamental British values: Democracy, Rule of law, Individual liberty, Mutual respect and Tolerance of those with different faith and beliefs. It also shows the Personal development criteria used by Ofsted and which of our lessons and units provide opportunities for pupils to develop in each area.
What is SMSC and how can I incorporate it into my Geography lessons?
Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural development.
It is compulsory for schools in the United Kingdom to demonstrate that they are actively fostering the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural (SMSC) development of their pupils. The SMSC statements outlined in this document have been taken from the November 2019 Ofsted Inspection Handbook, which specifies the criteria that inspectors may use to evaluate pupils’ progress in schools in terms of SMSC development.
Spiritual Development:
Being reflective about their own beliefs, respecting different perspectives, enjoying learning, being imaginative and creative, and reflecting on experiences.
Moral development:
Differentiating between right and wrong, respecting legal boundaries, being aware of consequences, and having an interest in exploring and understanding moral and ethical issues from different perspectives.
Social development:
Working and socialising with people from diverse backgrounds, participating in different communities and social settings, resolving conflicts effectively, and accepting fundamental British values.
Cultural development:
Appreciating diverse cultures, valuing commonalities, participating in cultural activities, exploring different faiths, and cultivating respectful attitudes towards different groups.
This document shows how our Geography curriculum for Key Stages 1 and 2 aligns with Ofsted’s SMSC descriptors. By mapping the units against the statements they cover, you can easily see how our Geography lessons provide coverage of the SMSC requirements.
We have also identified the areas where our KS1 and KS2 Geography curriculum can help schools promote the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. Our document highlights the personal development criteria set by Ofsted, and we have identified the opportunities for students to develop in each of these aspects through our Geography lessons and units.
Read moreHow else can I teach personal development, SMSC and British values through foundation subjects?
At Kapow Primary, we recognise the importance of a comprehensive and well-rounded curriculum that reinforces cross-curricular links. That is why we have created documents for many of our foundation subjects, showing how they can help your school meet SMSC, British values and personal development requirements.
Why not check out Personal development, SMSC and British values mapping documents for: