PSHE

PSHE

What is PSHE?

Definition:

Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE) consists of a number of interrelated themes. The principal threads are:

  • Health Education, including Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education and Drug Education,
  • Careers Education and Guidance including Work Related Learning
  • Personal and social skills development
  • Enterprise and economic understanding

NB     Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) is explained in further detail on the website here and also includes the right to withdrawal and the parental consultation process.

How do we deliver this programme?

The main taught aspect of this programme and taught Citizenship is through:

  • Curriculum for Life (CfL) in Year 7 and
  • LIFE (Learning is for Everyone) lessons in Years 8 – 11

We refer to this as the CfL/LIFE programme in policies and information, except where specific reference is made to one of the principal threads of the programme.

Other input into this programme is through:

  • tutors (in tutor time activities) and/or through assemblies
  • subject departments as part of their scheme of work. 

In addition, there are many other ways that we encourage personal development and social understanding.  This includes:

  • Extra-curricular activities and other events: Visits, special events in school, productions, work experience, work placements, charitable fund raising and residential trips all provide opportunities for students to plan and work together, develop and maintain relationships with others and discover new skills, qualities and personal characteristics by taking part and being active citizens.
  • Pastoral care and guidance: The tutor systems play a vital role in delivering this aspect of the programme.  Tutor time activities also give students a forum to explore topics relating to the Cfl/LIFE curriculum in more detail and enable them to develop their understanding and form their own opinions on key topics.
  • Outside speakers:  Where available, outside speakers and health specialists such as community nurses deliver elements of the PSHE programme. 

The Cfl/LIFE programme looks to complement the personal and social development of the child that is provided within the family and within the local community. 

It is acknowledged that students come from a range of cultural and social backgrounds and that sensitivity is required to avoid offending students or their families. In providing personal, social and health education for students the school will respect the religious beliefs and values of all members of its community, and make provision to discuss its aims with parents/carers wishing to receive further clarification. 

Students are encouraged by their Cfl/LIFE teachers to discuss the content in their Cfl/LIFE lessons with adults at home.