SMSC

We encourage our students' spiritual development by encouraging students to be reflective about their own beliefs, religious or otherwise, that inform their perspective on life and their interest in and respect for different people’s faiths, feelings and values, sense of enjoyment and fascination in learning about themselves, others and the world around them, use of imagination and creativity in their learning and willingness to reflect on their experiences.

Student’s moral development is encouraged through our Positive Discipline system where students are given the opportunity to consider right from wrong in their own practices as well as others. Celebration of individual and group successes underpins the Positive Discipline system, which rewards our students for getting it right. We have an active student voice and student council who consider the needs of all individuals in the Academy and contribute towards the academy’s development.

Social development is encouraged at the academy through a range of different contexts, including working and socialising with pupils from different religious, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. We actively encourage them to participate in a variety of communities and social settings, including by volunteering, cooperating well with others and being able to resolve conflicts effectively.

A student’s cultural development refers to an understanding of those values, beliefs, customs, knowledge and skills which link groups together and give people a sense of identity.  At our academy, we seek to develop a student’s understanding and awareness of their culture within a multicultural society and encourage personal values and self-esteem. Our curriculum provides experiences of all aspects of culture including languages, aesthetic, mathematical, literacy, technological, scientific, musical, political, economic, citizenship and religious education. 

At Holderness Academy, we fully support the Department for Education’s definition of British Values, which includes:

• Democracy: The right to vote and influence decisions.
• Individual Liberty: Freedom to believe and act within the law.
• The Rule of Law: The importance of following laws that protect society.
• Mutual Respect: Treating all individuals with respect, regardless of differences.
• Tolerance of Others: Respecting diverse opinions, beliefs, and backgrounds.

These values are embedded across our curriculum, particularly within our personal development programme, ARRK, and are woven into students' everyday experiences. All staff contribute to promoting British Values through their interactions with learners. This approach aligns with our core values of being aspirational, resilient, respectful, and kind.

How We Promote British Values:

• Democracy: Students actively participate in democratic processes through the Student Council, ensuring that all voices are heard and directly impacting the development of the academy's culture, climate, and resources.

• The Rule of Law: Students encounter the importance of rules and laws in their daily activities, exploring their values and the consequences of not following them. We work with external authorities such as the Safer Schools Partnership Officer, police, fire services, and NHS to reinforce these lessons.

• Individual Liberty: Students are encouraged to express opinions, make informed choices, and take on leadership roles through charity work, sports leadership, and peer support, fostering a sense of personal freedom and responsibility.

• Mutual Respect: Respect is a fundamental value at Holderness Academy, reflected in daily interactions, class discussions, and special events such as Black History Month and International Women’s Day. We are proud to have Rainbow Flag status and an active LGBTQI+ club, providing learners with opportunities to promote mutual respect within the school community.

• Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs: Through Philosophy & Ethics, assemblies, and community engagement, students gain an understanding of different cultures and beliefs, fostering tolerance and encouraging a deeper appreciation of diversity.

At Holderness Academy, we are committed to preparing students to be responsible, respectful citizens, equipped to thrive in modern Britain and contribute positively to society.