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SMSC and British Values

"It is crucial for individual pupils and it is crucial for society as a whole. Most teachers would see it as the heart of what education is all about – helping pupils grow and develop as people."
Ofsted
At Bitterne Church of England Primary School, we believe education is about more than academic success. We want every child to develop the confidence, character and values they need to flourish in school, within their community and in later life.
Guided by our Christian vision and our values of hope, courage and creativity, we help children become compassionate, respectful and responsible citizens who are ready to make a positive contribution to their community and the wider world.
Developing Character
We help children become confident, resilient and responsible individuals. They learn to make positive choices, reflect on their actions and contribute positively to school life and the wider community.
Living British Values
British values are lived every day through voting, pupil leadership, teamwork, classroom discussions and learning about democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance.
Celebrating Diversity
We celebrate the rich diversity within our school, our local community and the wider world. Every child is valued and encouraged to appreciate different cultures, faiths, beliefs and backgrounds while recognising that everyone deserves dignity, respect and kindness.
SMSC in Action
Through everyday experiences, educational visits and enrichment opportunities, children develop spiritually, morally, socially and culturally. Here are just a few examples of SMSC in action at Bitterne.
Beating the Bounds
Learning about our local heritage
Children took part in Southampton's historic Beating the Bounds tradition, meeting the Mayor and learning about the city's history, traditions and civic life.

Sharing High-Quality Literature
Developing a love of reading
Throughout the year, children enjoy sharing high-quality books that inspire curiosity, imagination and discussion. Reading together helps develop vocabulary, empathy and a lifelong love of books.

Residential Visits
Building teamwork and resilience
Residential visits provide exciting opportunities for children to work together, solve problems and challenge themselves. Through teamwork, encouragement and perseverance, children build confidence and create lasting memories.

Christmas Carol Concert
Sharing the joy of Christmas
Each year, our children enjoy performing traditional Christmas carols for parents, families and members of our community. These special occasions bring everyone together to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas through music, worship and community.

Remembrance
Remembering with gratitude
Children reflected on the importance of Remembrance through art, learning about the sacrifices made by others and taking time to remember those who have served their country with courage and dedication.

Cross Country and Sports Competitions
Challenging ourselves
Taking part in sporting events helps children develop determination, resilience and teamwork. We encourage every child to challenge themselves, support others and celebrate personal achievement.

Everyday School Life
SMSC is woven throughout everything we do, from collective worship and classroom learning to educational visits, charity work, pupil leadership and everyday interactions. Rather than being taught as a separate subject, it is an integral part of daily life at Bitterne Church of England Primary School.
British Values
The five fundamental British values are woven throughout school life and help prepare our children to become responsible, respectful and active citizens.
Democracy
Children learn that every voice matters by voting, sharing ideas and taking on leadership roles.
Rule of Law
Children understand why rules are important and how they help to keep everyone safe, happy and treated fairly.
Individual Liberty
Children are encouraged to make positive choices, take responsibility for their actions and develop confidence in expressing their own views.
Mutual Respect
Children are encouraged to make positive choices, take responsibility for their actions and develop confidence in expressing their own views.
Tolerance
Children celebrate different cultures, faiths and beliefs, recognising that diversity enriches our school and wider community.
How We Develop SMSC
Children develop their spiritual, moral, social and cultural understanding through a wide range of experiences, including:
Learning and Reflection
- Collective Worship
- Religious Education
- PSHE and RSHE
- Reading high-quality literature
- Music and the arts
Leadership and Community
- School Council
- Eco Team
- Charity fundraising
- Educational visits
- Visitors to school
- Sporting events
- Pupil leadership opportunities
- Residential visits
We want every child to leave Bitterne Church of England Primary School as a compassionate, respectful and courageous young person, ready to make a positive contribution to their community and the wider world.

