Ofsted stresses the importance of SMSC. It’s part of the inspection framework. Clear guidelines were set out in the subsidiary guidance to inspectors for inspectors to investigate the impact of of the curriculum on pupils’ SMSC development.

This is a good source of information if you are looking for a basic understanding of how SMSC is defined and evaluated.

Some assume spiritual development is about religious exploration or faith, but this is not the case – this subject is covered in religious studies or equivalent subjects, the spiritual in SMSC is concerned with developing the non-material aspects of life, focusing on personal insight, values, meaning and purpose. Beliefs that help provide perspective on life may be rooted in a religion, but equally may not. Creativity and imagination is important, as is a sense of fascination, awe and wonder.

The moral element is largely about choices, behaviour and how you live your life. It’s also about personal and societal values, understanding the reasons for them and airing and understanding disagreements. Sessions in tutor time or assemblies, or in class, might explore the consequences of decisions, other people’s needs, and ways of learning from experience.

Social development shows pupils working together effectively, relating well to adults and participating in the local community. This element of SMSC includes a significant area of personal growth, ranging from engagement with society’s institutions to the skills for successful personal relationships.

Cultural development is about understanding and feeling comfortable in a variety of cultures. schools might create opportunities for pupils to experience art, theatre and travel. Valuing cultural diversity and challenging racism is important. [British Red Cross 2017]