Cultural Capital
What is cultural capital?
Our understanding of ‘knowledge and cultural capital’ is derived from the following wording in the national curriculum: ‘It is the essential knowledge that pupils need to be educated citizens, introducing them to the best that has been thought and said and helping to engender an appreciation of human creativity and achievement.’
1 - Personal Development
In St. Michael and All Angels Primary School, we prioritise personal development as a key aspect of developing our pupils' cultural capital. We provide a range of opportunities for our pupils to explore their interests, passions, and talents. Through activities such as clubs and project-based learning, our pupils are encouraged to discover and develop their individual strengths, skills, and abilities. We also promote self-reflection and goal-setting to foster a sense of personal growth and resilience.
2 - Social Development, including political and current affairs awareness
At St. Michael and All Angels Primary School, we believe that social development plays a crucial role in developing our pupils' cultural capital. We provide opportunities for our pupils to engage with and understand the diverse social fabric of our society. Through discussions (through Picture News for example), debates, and collaborative projects, we encourage our pupils to develop empathy, tolerance, and respect for others. We also facilitate opportunities for them to learn about political and current affairs, nurturing their understanding of democracy, social justice, and their role as responsible citizens.
3 - Physical Development
Physical development is an integral part of our approach to developing cultural capital at St. Michael and All Angels Primary School. We recognise the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle in promoting overall well-being and personal fulfilment. Our pupils engage in a variety of physical activities, including sports, dance, and outdoor exploration. We also emphasise the importance of a balanced diet and proper nutrition, enabling our pupils to make informed choices about their physical health.
4 - Spiritual Development
In St. Michael and All Angels Primary School, we value spiritual development as an essential component of our pupils' cultural capital. We provide a nurturing and inclusive environment that allows our pupils to explore their own beliefs, values, and sense of purpose. Through mindfulness activities, reflection, and exposure to different spiritual traditions, we aim to develop their understanding of themselves and their place in the world. We also encourage our pupils to appreciate the beauty in nature, art, and music, fostering a sense of awe and wonder.
5 - Moral Development
Moral development is a fundamental aspect of developing cultural capital at St. Michael and All Angels Primary School. We aim to instill in our pupils a strong sense of right and wrong, empathy, and ethical responsibility. Through discussions, role-playing, and real-life scenarios, we encourage our pupils to think critically and make informed decisions based on moral principles. We also promote a positive and inclusive school ethos, where kindness, fairness, and respect are valued and practised by all.
6 - Cultural Development
Cultural development is at the heart of our approach to developing cultural capital at St. Michael and All Angels Primary School. We celebrate the rich cultural diversity within our school community and ensure that our pupils have opportunities to explore, appreciate, and respect different cultures. Through cultural festivals, visits to museums and historical sites, and engagement with local artists and musicians such as the Nasheed Choir, we aim to broaden our pupils' horizons and deepen their understanding of the world around them. We also encourage them to express their own cultural identities through creative arts, music, and storytelling.