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SMSC Across the Curriculum

Life at Lowton

Purpose and context

The programme delivers the school’s start-of-year ‘Life at Lowton’ form pages: a seven-week sequence of short, tutor-led form sessions launching in September 2026. Its purpose is to establish belonging and consistent routines from the first week of the autumn term, setting shared expectations and ensuring every pupil understands how the school cares for, teaches, and supports them.

The programme is delivered to all year groups in the first instance, establishing a shared language and consistent routines across the school. From academic year 2027, individual development sessions linked to specific year groups will be included.

What the programme covers

Over seven weeks the programme addresses one theme per week: the Student Charter and school values; careers, work-related learning, and enterprise; attendance; safeguarding; wellbeing and mental health; homework; and organisation and pride in work. Each week follows a consistent structure. Each includes a Turn & Talk discussion point, clear information about how the value or routine works at Lowton, named points of contact where relevant, and a Belonging prayer linking the theme to the school’s Christian vision.

Life at Lowton Documentation

British Values

Purpose and context

The programme actively promotes the five fundamental British values through the school’s ‘Life at Lowton’ form pages. It has two linked parts: a teaching sequence that introduces and explores each value, and a recall sequence that revisits them through low-stakes retrieval. Its purpose is to ensure every pupil understands the fundamental British values, can recall them, and can describe how they are lived at Lowton, rooted in our Christian vision and values.

The programme is delivered to all year groups in the first instance, establishing a shared language across the school. From academic year 2027, content will be differentiated by year group to deepen understanding across Years 7 to 11.

What the programme covers

Each value is addressed: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs. Each follows a consistent structure, with a Turn & Talk discussion point, a clear definition, an ‘At Lowton’ section showing how the value is lived through pupil voice, the ambassador programme, the behaviour policy, and curriculum links in RE, History, and PSHE, and a values-linked prayer.

British Values Documentation

SMSC

Evidence & Curriculum Links

SMSC

Evidence & Curriculum Links

English

Spiritual

  • Pupils explore the deeper meanings of literary and non-literary texts, examining the human condition, identity, and purpose through stories, plays, and poems.
  • Reading diverse literature broadens pupils' sense of wonder and appreciation for perspectives beyond their own lived experience.

Moral

  • Pupils evaluate important moral issues — including inequality, war, and poverty — through the texts they study.
  • Pupils are equipped to recognise injustice and challenge it, developing reasoned moral viewpoints and empathy for others.

Social

  • Spoken and written communication skills are explicitly developed to prepare pupils for adult life and productive citizenship.
  • Pupils discuss and debate significant social issues, broadening their understanding of the societies and cultures in which they live.

Cultural

  • Pupils study a wide and diverse range of texts, gaining access to cultural voices and experiences beyond their own.
  • Cultural and historical context is explicitly taught, helping pupils understand how time and place shape purpose and meaning in literature.

Mathematics

Spiritual

  • Pupils are encouraged to appreciate the beauty and order in mathematical patterns and structures, fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder.
  • Logical reasoning and abstract thinking develop pupils' capacity for independent reflection.

Moral

  • Financial literacy is taught explicitly, helping pupils understand their responsibilities as citizens and consumers within their communities.
  • Pupils learn to justify reasoning honestly and rigorously, developing intellectual integrity.

Social

  • Collaborative problem-solving tasks develop communication, peer-support, and teamwork skills.
  • Pupils are shown how mathematical skills are transferable across careers and community life, empowering them as active members of society.

Cultural

  • Pupils recognise that mathematics is a universal language, used across cultures and throughout history.
  • Links are made between mathematical concepts and their application in diverse real-world and cultural contexts.

Science

Spiritual

  • Pupils are encouraged to appreciate the wonder of the natural world and to ask big questions about how and why life on Earth is possible.
  • Practical investigation develops a spirit of enquiry, curiosity, and awe at the complexity of the physical and biological world.

Moral

  • Pupils are taught to critically evaluate information from social media and the news, developing intellectual honesty and a commitment to evidence-based thinking.
  • Pupils explore how science intersects with ethics — including environmental responsibility and caring for the planet.

Social

  • Teamwork, communication, and investigative skills are developed through practical and group-based science activities.
  • Pupils develop as reflective thinkers and independent learners, equipped to contribute positively to society.

Cultural

  • Pupils learn about the contributions of scientists from diverse cultural backgrounds throughout history.
  • Current global scientific issues — including climate change and environmental challenges — are explored with a cross-cultural lens.

Computing

Spiritual

  • Pupils are encouraged to reflect on the ethical implications of technology and how it shapes lives, relationships, and communities.
  • Creative and imaginative use of digital tools supports pupils in expressing ideas and exploring possibilities.

Moral

  • Pupils are taught to identify, question, and challenge the source of news and facts, developing a moral responsibility towards truth and accuracy.
  • Safe, responsible use of the internet, social media, and digital devices is explicitly taught within an ethical framework.

Social

  • Pupils develop communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills through computing activities and problem-solving tasks.
  • Pupils learn how to use social media positively and responsibly to communicate, share ideas, and influence audiences constructively.

Cultural

  • Pupils gain awareness of how technology shapes and is shaped by wider society, culture, and global developments.
  • Pupils are taught to consider diverse perspectives when evaluating digital information and its social impact.

Geography

Spiritual

  • Geography inspires curiosity and fascination about the world, developing pupils' sense of place, belonging, and wonder at the natural environment.
  • Fieldwork and enquiry foster a personal connection to the world and its landscapes.

Moral

  • Pupils explore moral questions around sustainability, environmental responsibility, and the ethical use of natural resources.
  • Engagement with charity projects such as Christian Aid and WaterAid encourages pupils to consider their obligations as global citizens.

Social

  • Pupils learn how physical and human processes shape communities and societies, developing empathy for people in different circumstances.
  • Teamwork in fieldwork and the study of multicultural Britain promote respect, cooperation, and a reduction in ethnic and social division.

Cultural

  • Pupils study a wide range of cultures, countries, and communities, broadening their world view.
  • The study of religious and cultural diversity — including multicultural Britain — promotes tolerance, respect, and appreciation of difference.

History

Spiritual

  • History develops an enquiring, reflective outlook on the world, encouraging pupils to ask deep questions about human nature, change, and continuity.
  • The study of the complexity of people's lives across time nurtures empathy and personal development.

Moral

  • Pupils study significant moral issues — including the transatlantic slave trade, the Holocaust, and the Civil Rights Movement — developing moral understanding and a commitment to justice.
  • LGBTQ+ history, Black History, and Holocaust remembrance activities promote respect, diversity, and tolerance of others.

Social

  • Pupils develop skills in analysing, questioning, and constructing evidence-based arguments, preparing them for responsible citizenship.
  • History provides a platform for pupils to understand how historical events have resulted in some of the major challenges facing multicultural Britain today.

Cultural

  • Pupils study local, national, and international historical events, gaining a rich understanding of cultural heritage and diversity.
  • The history curriculum provides opportunities to appreciate the similarities and differences between societies and cultures, and how they can contribute to a better world.

Religious Studies

Spiritual

  • Pupils are given the opportunity to explore questions about belief, meaning, purpose, and truth, supporting their own spiritual development.
  • Creativity and imagination are built into the process of enquiry, fostering spiritual and experiential learning.

Moral

  • Pupils develop impersonal evaluation skills — forming well-founded, reasoned moral conclusions rather than simply expressing feelings.
  • Studying philosophical and ethical issues across the six major world faiths equips pupils to challenge stereotypes, tackle extremism, and promote cohesion.

Social

  • Pupils learn to value themselves and the communities within which they live, developing confidence as citizens in a pluralistic society.
  • Opportunities for discussion, debate, and evaluation of misconceptions develop social responsibility and a commitment to a fair society.

Cultural

  • Pupils study six major world faiths and corresponding philosophical and ethical frameworks, gaining a rich understanding of global cultural diversity.
  • Pupils appreciate how religion, philosophy, and ethics form the basis of culture and develop respect for people of all faiths and none.

Modern Foreign Languages

Spiritual

  • Learning a language opens pupils to the possibilities of global connection, travel, and understanding, fostering wonder at the diversity of the world's cultures.
  • Nelson Mandela's philosophy — speaking to someone in their own language goes to their heart — underpins the spiritual dimension of MFL study.

Moral

  • Pupils are taught about global and social issues in Year 9 and at KS4, considering how they can contribute to a healthier, greener, and fairer world.
  • Learning a foreign language develops respect for people of different cultures and a moral commitment to mutual understanding.

Social

  • Pupils can write to pupils in French or Spanish schools, using their learning for real-life communication and community building.
  • International language trips are offered to enhance pupils’ understanding of the culture behind the language.

Cultural

  • Pupils study a broad range of topics relevant to daily life and the wider world, developing cultural knowledge and sensitivity.
  • The MFL curriculum places global citizenship at its heart: pupils appreciate cultural differences and the value of communicating across linguistic boundaries.

Physical Education

Spiritual

  • Pupils experience the joy and self-discovery that comes from physical achievement, supporting personal growth and a sense of self-worth.
  • PE develops character and resilience, encouraging pupils to reflect on their own abilities and limitations.

Moral

  • Pupils learn the values of fair play, sportsmanship, and respect for others — both teammates and opponents.
  • Giving and receiving honest feedback as a coach or peer develops integrity and personal responsibility.

Social

  • Social and communication skills are developed through team sports, leadership roles, and peer coaching.
  • Pupils experience the power of sport to bring people together and have a transformative impact on community life.

Cultural

  • Pupils are introduced to a broad range of sports and physical activities, reflecting diverse cultural traditions and practices.
  • Exposure to a wide variety of sports ensures all pupils can find activities that reflect their own interests and backgrounds.

Art & Photography

Spiritual

  • Pupils are encouraged to explore ideas, feelings, and emotions through visual art, developing self-expression and a personal sense of meaning.
  • Studying historical and contemporary artists fosters appreciation of the spiritual and emotional dimensions of creative practice.

Moral

  • Pupils develop empathy by studying the work of artists who respond to social, political, and human issues.
  • Evaluating and reflecting on their own and others' work develops honesty, self-awareness, and personal integrity.

Social

  • Transferable skills — including creative problem-solving, communication, and analytical thinking — are developed in a collaborative creative environment.
  • Extracurricular trips, gallery visits, and work with visiting artists broaden pupils' social and cultural horizons.

Cultural

  • Pupils develop knowledge of different cultures, religions, and peoples from around the world through their study of art history and theory.
  • Studying a diverse range of artistic traditions ensures all pupils see their own cultural heritage reflected and valued.

Design & Technology

Spiritual

  • Pupils are encouraged to take risks, experiment, and innovate — developing a sense of wonder at what can be achieved through creative and technical thinking.
  • Seeing their designs come to life as functional products builds a profound sense of personal pride and achievement.

Moral

  • Pupils consider the ethical implications of design, innovation, and technology in the world — and how they can be used responsibly.
  • Pupils are asked to reflect on how innovation in design can be used to address social issues and contribute to a better world.

Social

  • Peer review activities develop evaluative, questioning, and collaborative skills, preparing pupils for teamwork in adult and working life.
  • Pupils are exposed to the world of technology and industry, developing an understanding of its place and value in society.

Cultural

  • Pupils work with a wide range of materials and processes, encountering design traditions and technological approaches from different industries and contexts.
  • The D&T curriculum broadens pupils' awareness of how design shapes society and culture globally.

Food Technology

Spiritual

  • Pupils develop a sense of creativity and personal expression through the design and preparation of food, discovering a love of cooking.
  • Encountering new ingredients and dishes from different traditions broadens pupils' sense of wonder at the world's culinary diversity.

Moral

  • Pupils debate issues surrounding nutrition, wellbeing, climate change, and fair trade, developing moral responsibility as consumers.
  • Pupils evaluate their power as consumers and consider the ethical impact of their choices on communities and the environment.

Social

  • Practical cooking develops confidence, life skills, and a sense of personal responsibility for health and wellbeing.
  • Pupils are encouraged to think about the food needs of others, including family and future generations, as well as themselves.

Cultural

  • Pupils learn about food from different cultures and the influences on our food choices, developing appreciation of global culinary traditions.
  • The curriculum broadens pupils' experiences by introducing ingredients, dishes, and practices from a wide range of cultural backgrounds.

Drama

Spiritual

  • Drama allows pupils to explore the inner lives of characters, developing empathy, self-reflection, and a deeper understanding of the human condition.
  • Pupils reflect on the power of drama to communicate a message and enact change, developing a sense of creative and personal purpose.

Moral

  • Pupils explore challenging moral scenarios through characterisation and improvisation in a safe and controlled environment.
  • Drama helps pupils understand the motives of others, developing moral empathy and the ability to consider multiple perspectives.

Social

  • Collaborative creative development, performance, and peer feedback build communication, self-confidence, and teamwork skills.
  • Regular performance opportunities develop a positive sense of self-worth and celebrate pupil achievement within the school community.

Cultural

  • Pupils gain a historical knowledge of Drama, recognising the development of style and genre across different cultures and periods.
  • Extracurricular performances and theatre visits extend cultural knowledge and appreciation of the arts.

Music

Spiritual

  • Pupils develop their own musical creativity through composition and performance, exploring personal expression and emotional depth.
  • Exposure to a rich variety of musical traditions from across history and the world fosters curiosity, wonder, and a love of music.

Moral

  • Pupils learn the value of listening to and respecting the contributions of others, developing collaborative integrity.
  • Music is recognised as a powerful inclusive force; pupils develop a sense of moral responsibility towards its use and its impact on communities.

Social

  • Performing, composing, and evaluating in group and individual settings develops communication, confidence, and social awareness.
  • Extra-curricular music provides real-world experience and opportunities to contribute to the school and wider community.

Cultural

  • Pupils are exposed to a deliberately broad range of musical genres, traditions, and cultures from across the world.
  • The music curriculum develops cultural literacy and an appreciation of how music both reflects and shapes society and identity.