Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural Education

Reception

AM - Activities

Blocks/lego on the carpet to build Diwali temples. Bollywood music on IWB.

1. True/false cutting and sticking facts (sorting the pictures – which ones show Diwali, which ones don’t)
2. Playdough mats (making fireworks) / Diwali cutting skills
3. Diwali patterns scattered around table – flipchart paper on tables with paint/chalks/colours
4. Diwali jigsaw puzzle strips (laminate)

PM – Rangoli

1. Paper plate Rangoli
2. Making Rangoli patterns using 2D shapes
3. Rangoli pattern colouring
4. Any left over CP from the morning)

Year 1

We have had a fantastic day, which was kickstarted with sequencing and retelling the famous story of Rama and Sita. Afterwards, the real fun began when we hosted our very own Diwali celebration. We created our own lanterns, made our own Rangoli patterns, danced to traditional music and even made and tasted our very own Coconut Barfi’s (a Diwali delicacy!)

Year 2

To celebrate Diwali in school, we took part in creative activities that helped us learn about the festival and its traditions. We made postcards describing how Diwali is celebrated, including lighting diyas, wearing traditional clothes, sharing sweets, and enjoying fireworks. Each postcard was decorated with bright, festive designs. We also created a colourful piece of art showing a large firework display, using different materials to capture the excitement of Diwali night. These activities helped us understand the meaning of Diwali and express its joy through writing and art.

Year 3

Year 3CS had a wonderful day celebrating Diwali and exploring what this Hindu festival involves. In the morning, we discovered the meaning behind Diwali and the story of Rama and Sita. We created out own fact files to show how, why and when this event is celebrated. Then, we explored Rangoli patterns and their purpose during this special time. We created a class mural of a Rangoli pattern using various different techniques such as water colours, pastels and tissue paper—it looks amazing! Finally, we created our own Rangoli patterns symbolising us.

Year 4

For our SMSC Day, pupils have explored the Hindu festival of Diwali through storytelling, creative writing, and art. They have learnt about the cultural and religious significance of Diwali, focusing on the story of Rama and Sita. Through writing a diary entry in role as either Rama or Sita, the children developed empathy and reflect on moral themes such as bravery, loyalty, and the triumph of good over evil. They got really creative in the afternoon, crafting shadow puppets.

Year 5

Today in Year 5, we explored the importance of Diwali and how it is celebrated around the world. We began by locating different countries on a world map (where Diwali is celebrated). Then, we used our research and understanding to write a newspaper article - reporting on how Diwali is celebrated in different parts of the world. To finish our day, we designed our own henna patterns, inspired by traditional Diwali artwork

Year 6

In Year 6, we spent time discussing Diwali, including how and why Sikh and Hindu people celebrate the festival. We used the information that we had learned to write a persuasive information leaflet to encourage the local community to hold a Diwali event. As well as this, we designed and created our own Diwali tea light holders.

Nursery

Nursery started their day by learning about the significance of Remembrance Day. We then began printing our handprints to create our class poppy wreath. We made some stunning playdough poppies and also some crafted out of tissue paper In the afternoon we made some soldiers to represent the people we remember and also celebrated the animals who have helped in keeping our country safe.

Reception

Today we learnt all about Remembrance Day and why it is important. We talked about how people remember, some wearing poppies, laying wreaths or taking part in parades and some children were able to share their experiences of their own family. Throughout the day we have create some poppy collages, thinking about them in the fields. We made poppies out of play dough and also paper poppies.

Year 1

This SMSC day, we learnt all about Remembrance Day. We discovered exactly what it is we are remembering and why we wear poppies. We wrote some super descriptive sentences focusing on emotions and feelings. We observed the two-minute silence at 11am to show our respects. In the afternoon we made our own ‘sound wave’ poppies using oil pastils. When the music was loud we pressed on really hard and when the music was quiet we shaded very lightly.

Year 2

Today, I have learnt all about the importance of Remembrance Day and why we celebrate it. We have discussed the sacrifices that others have gone through to allow us to live the lives we do today. Then, to celebrate and reflect on what we learned, we created our own acrostic poems about remembrance, using thoughtful words and phrases to show respect and gratitude. We also designed and made our own Medals of Honour, inspired by real military medals, to recognise the bravery and dedication of those who served.

Year 3

Year 3 had a lovely morning exploring the significance of the 11th November. We explored the reason behind this special day and why poppys are of such significance. We put ourselves into the shoes of the soldiers fighting for our country in World War 1 and creating postcards home to our loved ones—practising being positive and patriotic. In the afternoon, we made our own poppy wreaths which we were very proud of!

Year 4

Today, I have learnt all about the importance of Remembrance Day and why we celebrate it. We have discussed the sacrifices that others have gone through to allow us to live the lives we do today. Then, we worked collaboratively to create a video diary saying thank you to those that gave it all to support us and keep us safe. Then later on we created digital art of different scenery like Flanders fields, the Cenotaph and war memorials.

Year 5

Year 5 have been learning about the importance of Remembrance Day. The children wrote heartfelt letters to future generations, reflecting on why it’s important to remember those who sacrificed so much for our freedom. They also created beautiful origami poppies to accompany their letters, symbolising peace, respect, and remembrance.

Year 6

In Year 6 we spent time discussing Remembrance Day, including why it is commemorated and what a poppy symbolises. We then wrote a diary entry from the perspective of a soldier in the trenches during WWI. We hid under the tables for safety and listened to the noises of war as we completed the task. We also carried out a variety of craft activities linked to Remembrance, including silhouette art and creating a class wreath.

Nursery

Nursery have been busy making their own pancake design cutting out pieces of fruit to decorate. We tasted some pancakes and got very messy being pretend pancakes makers.

Reception

In Reception we had lots of fun learning all about this special day. We decorated our very own pancakes with lots of exciting toppings. We learnt all about Shrove Tuesday and why we have it.

Year 1

Today, the children have been learning about Shrove Tuesday. We spoke about what happens for Shrove Tuesday, first we get ready for Lent by saying thank you to God, next we use eggs, milk and butter to make pancakes and finally we eat them before Lent begins. We then had a go at making our own pancakes and added our chosen toppings to taste.

Year 2

On Shrove Tuesday, the children learned about why we traditionally eat pancakes. We talked about how, in the past, people used up rich ingredients like eggs, milk, and sugar before the start of Lent. Pancakes were a perfect way to use these ingredients, which is why they became a special tradition on this day. The children enjoyed learning how to make pancakes step by step. They explored the ingredients, helped to mix the batter, and watched carefully as the pancakes were cooked. Afterward, they wrote their own set of instructions, thinking carefully about time words, clear steps, and bossy verbs to explain the process. They did a fantastic job combining their history learning with their writing skills!

Year 3

Year 3 had an excellent morning exploring the religious reasons why Christians celebrate Shrove Tuesday and Lent. We spent the morning immersing ourselves into the lives of Christians during this time of year and wrote a diary entry in the life of a Christian during Lent. We explored how we may feel during these periods and the importance of partaking in this time. We then went on to create our own forgiveness paper chains. Where we confessed our sins from this year and ask for forgiveness. We also discussed how we forgive others around us too and the importance of this.

Year 4

To celebrate Shrove Tuesday, Year 4 explored the key themes of preparation, forgiveness, sharing and self-control. Pupils designed a themed pancake to represent these values, thinking carefully about how their choices and designs linked to each theme. Through this activity, children reflected on making positive choices, showing kindness to others and preparing themselves to act responsibly.

Year 5

Year 5 have explored the Christian tradition of giving something up for Lent and used this as the basis for writing persuasive speeches. They began by learning about why Christians choose to give up certain things, such as sweets or screen time, to reflect, show self-discipline, or help others. Then, they planned their speeches by deciding what they would give up and why it was important. Finally, the children wrote persuasive speeches, using clear reasons, emotive language, and examples to convince others that giving something up for Lent is meaningful. Some even practiced reading their speeches aloud to make their arguments more engaging.

Year 6

Year 6 have had a wonderful morning immersing themselves in their learning about Shrove Tuesday. They began the day by exploring why Shrove Tuesday is celebrated and discovering the different traditions observed around the world. The children then took time to reflect on the positive changes they could make to become the best versions of themselves. To finish the morning, they designed their own symbolic pancakes, choosing toppings to represent important personal qualities such as kindness, respect, honesty, forgiveness, perseverance and teamwork.

Nursery

Nursery have been exploring the festival of EID by creating crescents and moons both collaging and finger painting and making colourful lanterns. We also spent time discovering thesignificance of EID and making our own crowns to celebrate.

Reception

Today we celebrated EUD. We took part in various activities and learnt all about their celebrations. We decorated henna tattoos and created lanterns.

Year 1

Year 1 celebrated Eid during our SMSC afternoon. We learnt what Ramadan is and learnt how Eid-Al-Fitr is celebrated. We then created our very own prayer mat, incorporating patterns and sequins.

Year 2

This afternoon, Year 2 celebrated Eid by taking part in a range of creative activities. They learned about why Muslims celebrate Eid, developing their understanding of the significance of the festival and what it represents. The children then crafted a decorative ornament inspired by Islamic art, exploring patterns and design, and also created their own Eid cards to take home and share with their families. They engaged enthusiastically and enjoyed learning about the celebration through hands-on experiences.

Year 3

Year 3 had a wonderful time exploring the meaning behind Eid Al-Fitr and Ramadan. We discovered how this time is celebrated and the impact this has on Muslim’s life. We created Eid gift boxes to gift to our friends and family. We spent time discovering how important generosity is at the special time of year.

Year 4

This afternoon, we discovered how Muslims celebrate Eid. Inspired by the Egyptian celebrations, we created lanterns to symbolise hope, unity and light in the darkness. This is because Muslims see Allah as a guiding light and a representation of the good in the world.

Year 5

Year 5 explored the significance of Eid as part of SMSC Day, learning that Eid is an important Muslim festival celebrated by people of the Islamic faith. They learned that there are two Eids—Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan (a month of fasting), and Eid al-Adha, which remembers the story of Prophet Ibrahim and highlights the importance of sacrifice and generosity. The children discussed how Eid is a time for prayer, giving to charity, showing gratitude, and spending time with family and friends. In the afternoon, the children took part in a creative activity where they designed and made their own Eid bookmarks. They then enjoyed the sunshine outdoors, making colourful Eid fans and celebrating together in a joyful and relaxed atmosphere.

Year 6

As part of our SMSC afternoon, Year 6 explored the theme of diversity through an art activity inspired by Ramadan and Eid. The children created mosque silhouettes, drawing inspiration from Islamic architecture against watercolour backgrounds. They experimented with colour blending techniques to create vibrant sunset effects, symbolising the reflection, hope and celebration associated with this special time.

Nursery

Nursery have been busy designing a castle, role-playing the story of George and the dragon, making handprint dragons and also making a St George’s Day flag.

Reception

Today in Reception we have had lots of fun learning about St George’s Day. We talked about what it means to be brave and shared ideas about how we can show bravery in our everyday lives. We also listened to the story of St George and the dragon and chatted about what made him brave. Throughout the day the children have made their own shields, painted flags, made paper chain dragons and created finger puppets. It was a lovely day full of creativity, discussion, and learning.

Year 1

Year 1 have had a fabulous day celebrating St George’s Day. First we learnt all about George and his dragon and wrote a description of the dragon. Then in the afternoon we made our own dragons using a variety of mixed materials.

Year 2

In Year 2 we have learned all about why St.George is celebrated in England on 23rd April. We sequenced the story of St.George and retold the story in our own words. During the afternoon, we designed our very own personal shield. We designed these to honour St.George, ourselves, our family and our school.

Year 3

Year 3 have had a fantastic day exploring St. George’s Day. We read the infamous story of St. George and the dragon; exploring George’s bravery and patriotism. We used this to create our very own diary entries, step-ping into St. George’s shoes. We explain how George may have felt during his heroic battle and though processes he may have had. In the afternoon, we continued to immerse ourselves into the life of St. George. Using our hand made battle helmets to be-come knights!

Year 4

Year 4 celebrated St George’s Day through a range of engaging activities. They explored the legend of St George and the dragon before entering a themed “Dragon’s Cave” to spark their imagination.Pupils then completed a quiz to test their knowledge and worked collaboratively to answer questions. The day ended with creative craft activities, including colouring and designing dragon-themed artwork.

Year 5

Today during SMSC Day, Year 5 learned about St George’s Day, exploring who Saint George was and the legend of St George and the Dragon. The children discussed whether the story is fact or fiction and what it teaches about bravery and perspective.

The children explored the idea of different viewpoints by rewriting the story from the dragon’s perspective, using descriptive and figurative language. They then created comic strips to retell their version of the story, showing key events and emotions.

At the end of the day, the children completed a quiz to check their understanding of key facts about St George and how the day is celebrated. The day promoted creativity, empathy and an understanding of English heritage and traditions.

Year 6

Year 6 we spent time discussing St. George’s Day, including why it is commemorated and how people around the country celebrate. We then completed an art activity using mixed media to show the battle between St. George and the dragon.

Nursery

In Nursery we learnt all about who the Armed Forces are and why we celebrate this day. We made medal and camouflage patterns.

Reception

Today in Reception we had a fantastic day learning about Armed Forces Day. We spent time talking about the important role that members of the armed forces play in helping and protecting others, and discussed the qualities of teamwork, courage, and kindness. Throughout the morning, the children enjoyed making their own soldier helmets, writing instructions, creating thoughtful thank you cards for members of the armed forces, and designing special medals. In the afternoon, the children took part in a special rescue mission to save Teddy. Working together in teams, they each had an important role. Using a map to guide them, they successfully found Teddy, rescued him, and carefully carried him back to base. We celebrated their achievements with an awards ceremony where every child was presented with a medal. It was a wonderful day full of teamwork, creativity, problem-solving, and fun learning experiences.

Year 1

To celebrate Armed Forces Day, children learned about what Armed Forces Day is, why it is celebrated and the important role that members of the armed forces play in protecting and supporting our country. They explored the values of courage, commitment, respect and service, developing an appreciation for those who dedicate their lives to helping others. The children then applied their writing skills by creating a set of instructions entitled 'How to Create the Perfect Ration Box', carefully considering what items would be essential for someone serving away from home. Finally, they brought their ideas to life by making their own ration boxes, thinking creatively about the practical and comforting items they would include.

Year 2

Year 2 took part in a range of activities linked to Armed Forces Day in the United Kingdom. The children learned about the important role that members of the armed forces play and explored how they help and support people both in the UK and around the world.

During the day, the children discussed the values and qualities needed to serve in the armed forces, including courage, teamwork, respect, determination and responsibility. They reflected on why these values are important and considered how they can demonstrate them in their own daily lives.

The children also explored the importance of communication within the armed forces. They enjoyed decoding secret messages and creating their own codes for their classmates to solve, developing their problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

To conclude their learning, the children designed and created their own communication devices. This exciting challenge encouraged creativity, teamwork and innovation as they thought about different ways messages can be sent and received.

Year 3

In the morning, we learned about the important job of the Armed Forces and how they help to keep us safe. We imagined what it would be like to serve in the Armed Forces and wrote diary entries from their point of view. We thought about how they might feel, including being brave, proud and missing their families.

In the afternoon, we became engineers and designed our own parachutes! We thought carefully about how they could safely carry supplies to members of the Armed Forces. We tested our parachutes to see how well they worked and talked about how we could improve them.

It was a fun day full of learning, creativity and teamwork as we celebrated and thanked the people who serve in the Armed Forces.

Year 4

Today, I have learned about the brave soldiers that protect us and the different parts of our Armed Forces. We have learnt about some of the vital skills required to serve in the Military. We have practised reading maps and creating out own map using Ordinance survey map icons. We have discussed all of the different roles that are vital to making the Army run as efficiently as it does!

Year 5

Today, Year 5 have learnt about Armed Forces Day. We first learnt how important the Armed Forces are in today’s society and what they do for our country. We then thought of the different qualities we need to be in the Armed Forces.

We began to write a speech about why we would be a great Armed Forces leader. We then completed some Armed Forces wordsearches, colouring in and different activities in the beautiful summer sun!

Year 6

As part of our Armed Forces Day celebrations, Year 6 spent the day learning about the important role of the Armed Forces and the values they demonstrate every day. Throughout the morning, children explored the qualities needed to overcome challenges and reflected on which characteristics are most important in difficult situations.

They discussed the importance of courage, resilience, teamwork, determination, leadership, respect and perseverance, considering how these qualities help people both in the Armed Forces and in everyday life. They then created a PowerPoint presentation to showcase their learning, before taking part in escape room challenges during the afternoon. Working collaboratively in teams, they solved puzzles, cracked codes and completed problem-solving activities.