At Rydon Primary School, we recognise that the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of our pupils is a fundamental part of the ‘whole child’ education we strive to provide. This development supports all areas of learning, fosters motivation, and nurtures a sense of awe and wonder. We believe that children flourish when the values and attitudes promoted by all staff provide a consistent model of behaviour and respect for others.

Our school values are outlined below:

Aspiration

• Do our best
• Set goals and work hard to reach them
• Believe to achieve great things

Resilience

• Keep trying when you find something tricky
• Stay positive
• Learn from mistakes

Responsibility

• Make sensible choices
• Be helpful
• Look after your belongings and the school

Teamwork

• Lead by example
• Value everyone
• Be a willing team player

We aim to provide an education that enables pupils to explore and develop their own values, beliefs, and spiritual awareness. Children are encouraged to demonstrate a positive, caring attitude towards others, develop an understanding of social and cultural traditions, and appreciate the diversity and richness of other cultures. This is underpinned by the promotion of British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.

As part of this, children in Key Stage 2 are explicitly taught about protected characteristics, helping them to understand diversity, equality, and inclusion. Pupils learn to respect differences in age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. This ensures they are aware of their rights and responsibilities and helps them to develop empathy and understanding for all members of society.

The development of an understanding of life in modern Britain is woven throughout our curriculum. The integrity and spirituality of pupils from other faith backgrounds are respected and explored, and the diversity of traditions is recognised. Pupils are given access to alternative viewpoints and opportunities to reflect on different perspectives.

SMSC is delivered in a variety of ways, including Personal Development lessons (through units such as Celebrating Difference), assemblies, RE lessons, and wider opportunities such as community projects. Through these experiences, we aim to nurture well-rounded, thoughtful, and compassionate individuals who are prepared to engage positively with the world around them.