Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Education
The embedding of Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Education (SMSC) helps our students develop personal qualities which are valued in any civilised society and which prepare them to meet the challenges of the wider world.
At the heart of everything we do are our Core Values, represented in our Values Tree, which is displayed in every classroom and promoted through everything we do.
Spiritual
All of our pupils are taught to respect diversity within the community. The spiritual life of the school is supported through assemblies, our partnership with the Brentwood Schools Christian Worker Trust who provide assemblies, interactive sessions covering Easter and Christmas and Year 6 transition activities. As they develop their intellectual curiosity, students are taught to appreciate a sense of awe and wonder about the world.
Moral
Robust moral values, which are reinforced throughout the school are essential. Pupils are taught to recognise the difference between right and wrong and to consider the reasons for their actions. They are taught the importance of forgiveness, sharing, listening, generosity and kindness. They learn that anti-social behaviour, especially bullying, is unacceptable.
Social
Learning is a shared experience and students are encouraged to collaborate with others. Teamwork is valued and friendships for life are fostered. Students learn to understand their responsibility towards others both within the school community and beyond. They gain the skills to communicate confidently with their peers and adults though LAMDA and drama coupled with an ethos of confidence and self-expression.
Cultural
Throughout their time at Woodlands, pupils learn to appreciate various cultural traditions and practices. Participation in the creative and performing arts provides rich opportunities for cultural education. The curriculum introduces students to their own cultural heritage as well as to the cultures of other societies through both enrichment and day to day events.