Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development at Thames Ditton Infant School

At Thames Ditton Infant School, we believe in nurturing the whole child, helping each one grow into a kind, respectful and thoughtful individual. SMSC stands for Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural development, and it is an essential part of how we support our pupils both in and beyond the classroom.

Our school values are at the heart of our SMSC provision:

We are: honest, independent and resilient.
We show: kindness, respect and co-operation.

These values guide the way we learn, play and grow together every day.

Spiritual Development

We encourage children to reflect on their experiences, explore their beliefs and values, and develop a sense of curiosity and wonder about the world. Spiritual development helps children make meaning from their learning and relationships, supporting their emotional growth and well-being.

Moral Development

Children learn to make good choices, understand right from wrong, and take responsibility for their actions. Through stories, discussions, and everyday situations, we promote honesty and fairness—encouraging our pupils to think about others and consider the impact of their behaviour.

Social Development

We create a strong sense of community, where children are encouraged to work together, communicate effectively, and value different opinions. Opportunities to collaborate, share and take on responsibility help develop independence, resilience and co-operation.

Cultural Development

We celebrate the rich diversity of our community and the wider world. Through assemblies, curriculum topics, special events, music, art and stories, children gain an appreciation of different cultures, traditions and beliefs—promoting respect and inclusion.

SMSC is woven throughout our curriculum and school life, helping our children to grow into confident, compassionate individuals who are ready to make a positive contribution to society.