SMSC and British Values
Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) awareness
At North Bromsgrove High School, we are committed to nurturing students’ Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) awareness, fully embedded in our CARE Values and Expectations. We support students’ academic achievement while also developing their broader character. All students in KS3, KS4 and KS5 have one dedicated CARE (PHSE) lesson each week, alongside weekly assemblies and daily form time for discussion on key topics.
SMSC and British Values are woven throughout daily school life, helping students grow into ambitious, responsible and well-rounded young people. Spiritual growth is encouraged through reflection, inclusive assemblies and celebrations of different faiths. Moral development is fostered via PSHE education and ethical discussions. Social development is supported through student leadership, collaborative learning, house competitions and community engagement. Cultural development is promoted through arts, performances, visits and links with local organisations. Students demonstrating our CARE Values are recognised through rewards, celebration assemblies and social media highlights.
A Foundation for Life in Modern Britain
At North Bromsgrove, British Values are actively modelled through the Rule of Law, Democracy, Individual Liberty, Tolerance and Mutual Respect, reflected in our House Council, positive behaviour culture, and inclusive ethos.
CARE Curriculum
Our CARE curriculum includes a carefully mapped and age appropriate PSHE programme, delivered through dedicated curriculum. The curriculum covers:
• Building an understanding of the UK’s legal and political systems
• Strengthening students’ ability to think critically and engage in informed discussion and debate
• Encouraging a culture of equality, inclusion, and mutual respect
• Empowering students to identify and challenge discrimination and prejudice
Topics are revisited year-on-year as part of a spiral curriculum model to deepen students' knowledge and understanding of how British Values apply in everyday life.
Assemblies
Our assembly programme is carefully planned to help students engage with important social issues and shared values in a way that is both relevant and impactful. Each half term focuses on key themes such as democracy, justice, equality, remembrance, and social responsibility, ensuring a well-rounded and purposeful experience.
Assemblies have explored topics such as:
• Remembrance Day, reflecting on sacrifice, peace, and the impact of conflict
• Black History Month, recognising the achievements of Black Britons and examining both historical and present-day issues
• The General Election, building students’ understanding of democratic processes and the importance of participation
• Holocaust Memorial Day, promoting reflection, empathy, and awareness of the consequences of prejudice and discrimination
These sessions are led by senior leaders, pastoral teams, and visiting speakers, bringing a range of perspectives and ensuring that assemblies remain engaging, meaningful, and relevant.
Enrichment Opportunities
To enhance learning beyond the classroom, North Bromsgrove offers an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in opportunities related to British Values and global affairs. Examples include:
• A mock general Election – including a student led mock General Election and voting, student debates and discussions around what it is to be a ‘good citizen', the British judicial system and explore what it means to be British today.
• Remembrance Day – with our annual student services led procession, a commemorative service and creative arts performances.
• Holocaust Memorial Day and its importance in British history - historical assemblies, themed reading activities and an opportunity for students to take part in ‘Testimony 360’ run by the Holocaust Educational Trust.
These experiences help students connect their learning to the wider world and develop respect, tolerance and empathy for others.
Student Leadership and Student Voice
We believe that British Values are most effectively developed through active involvement. Our student leadership groups—including House Captains, the House Council, and Wellbeing Ambassadors—play a key role in influencing and enhancing school life.
Through regular meetings, students are given the opportunity to discuss whole-school issues, share ideas, and lead initiatives for improvement, reflecting the democratic processes found in wider society.
A Whole-School Commitment
At North, British Values are not simply part of the curriculum; they underpin the culture and ethos of the school. They are consistently demonstrated by staff, recognised in students, and embedded across all areas of school life.
Through our CARE values, strong sense of community, and wide range of enrichment opportunities, we strive to develop not only successful learners, but thoughtful, informed, and responsible citizens for the future.
Updated: May 2026