SMSC Quality Mark

What is the SMSC Quality Mark?

We worked with experts in the field to create a self-review tool and verification service to help schools audit and improve your SMSC provision. The result was the SMSC Quality Mark, which supported over 800 primary schools, secondary schools and alternative education providers in eight years.

Why a National Quality Mark For SMSC & British Values?

In 2014 the RSA published “Schools with Soul” advocating for the SMSC development of pupils to be central to the education system.

The report noted that promoting pupils’ SMSC development benefits the entire school community by creating a more positive and inclusive environment.

When children learn to reflect on their beliefs and values (spiritual and moral), they develop empathy, respect, and a strong sense of right and wrong.

This reduces conflict and bullying and fosters a climate of physical and emotional safety, which is of benefit to all.

What’s the purpose of the National Quality Mark?

This National Quality Mark is designed to empower schools to elevate the Spiritual, Moral, Social, and Cultural (SMSC) development of their pupils.

By focusing on robust SMSC provision, schools can not only enhance learning outcomes and long-term life success for their pupils but also foster improved staff well-being.

Developed by a dedicated team of experts in collaboration with York University, this quality mark serves as a vital management tool for school improvement and meeting inspection expectations.

Tailored for all schools within the English curriculum framework, the mark is achieved through external verification by our specialist team, who will award a grade based on performance. We aim to support schools in nurturing well-rounded individuals ready to thrive.

What areas are evaluated by the Quality Mark?

To effectively audit and evaluate a school’s SMSC & British Values provision, the lead must gather diverse evidence from across the school. This evidence is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of SMSC initiatives and ensuring alignment with the quality mark’s eight educational standards:

S1: Safeguarding & Induction
S2: Leadership & Governance
S3: Attendance
S4: Behaviour (including Pastoral support)
S5: Inclusion
S6: Curriculum
S7: Personal Development
S8: Teaching & Learning

What the National Quality Mark provides

• Provide opportunities to quantify success
• Opportunities to celebrate so many things that schools do
• To share good practice across the curriculum
• To identify areas for challenge and development
• To develop a whole school approach to children’s personal development
• Provide invaluable data for inspection