To help ensure that children leave school prepared for life in modern Britain, the DfE issued guidance to all schools on improving the spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development of children through the promotion of fundamental British values.

Across our family of schools, we aim to develop a climate where the British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs are deeply embedded at every level and lived through our vivid vision, core values and curriculum.

As outlined in our aims and vivid vision, we seek to encourage our children to act with integrity and respect so that they embrace and celebrate diversity and understand our rich cultural history. Furthermore, we aim to empower our children to become humble, compassionate global citizens who learn how to live successful and happy lives where they are informed, courageous advocates of the things that matter to them. Underpinning this are the key concepts of being and belonging: being hopeful, considerate human beings who know they matter and that they can shape a positive future for themselves and others, understanding how they belong to their community, modern Britain and the world, recognising they can make a difference now.

At the Whiteoak Academies, Mathematics plays a vital role in helping us to deliver our vivid vision by supporting the personal development of children and promoting fundamental British values. Our Mathematics curriculum, drawing on resources from White Rose Maths, is crafted and designed to support and encourage our children to become global citizens who take into account the views of others. In our mathematics curriculum, our children learn about democracy through voting when collecting data to analyse. In class, children follow rules safely during tasks and activities to benefit everyone, as well as understanding the consequences if rules are ignored. In mathematics, we work within boundaries to make a safe and personal choice from a given selection during practical activities. Within lessons, children behave appropriately, allowing everyone involved the opportunity to work to the best of their ability. In addition, they take turns, sharing equipment, reviewing each other’s work respectfully and working collaboratively on projects whilst helping others. Children use Maths to learn about different faiths and cultures around the world. For example, looking at patterns and shapes within Islam and Hindu religions.

Spiritual development in Mathematics - The study of mathematics enables children to make sense of the world around them and we strive to enable each of our children to explore the connections between their mathematics skills and every-day life. Developing deep thinking and an ability to question the way in which the world works promotes the spiritual growth of children.

Moral development in Mathematics - The moral development of children is an important thread running through the mathematics curriculum. Children are provided with opportunities to use their maths skills in real life contexts, applying and exploring the skills required in solving various problems. All children are made aware of the fact that the choices they make lead to various consequences. They must then make a choice that relates to the result they are looking for. The logical aspect of this relates strongly to the right/wrong responses in mathematics.

Social development in Mathematics - Problem solving skills and teamwork are fundamental to mathematics through creative thinking, discussion, explaining and presenting ideas. Children are always encouraged to explain concepts to each other and support each other in their learning. In this manner, children realise their own strengths and feel a sense of achievement, which often boosts confidence. Over time, they become more independent and resilient learners.

Cultural development in Mathematics - Mathematics is a universal language with a myriad of cultural inputs throughout the ages. Various approaches to mathematics from around the world are used and this provides an opportunity to discuss their origins when appropriate.

Our pedagogical approach to the delivery of Mathematics at the Whiteoak Academies is designed to make a genuine impact on the spiritual, moral, social and cultural understanding of our children; therefore, helping to promote British values and global citizenship.