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PSHE / Citizenship

“The education of even a small child, therefore, does not aim at preparing him for school, but for life.” –  Maria Montessori

Our curriculum is designed to help students to develop the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to thrive as individuals members of society. Our curriculum enables students to make responsible decisions about choices in their lives such as their health and relationships. Giving them the skills to succeed in their next stages in life and beyond. Our curriculum helps students to manage many of the most critical opportunities, challenges and responsibilities they will face growing up.

PSHE lessons are intended to engage students through high quality, evidence-based and age-appropriate teaching. PSHE lessons help prepare pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life and promote the spiritual, moral, social, cultural, mental and physical development of students, at school and in society.

In addition our lessons teach pupils about the core British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.

PSHE lessons help students to identify their personal qualities, attitudes, skills, attributes and achievements and what influences these. To explore their attitudes, values and beliefs about them and develop the skills, language and strategies needed to manage any issues they encounter in their lives. Lessons help students to apply academic skills such as critical thinking and resilience, to their approach to the study of PSHE. Equip all students with the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe and be able to communicate when they do not feel safe.

Key Concepts

  • Active Citizenship
  • Relationships
  • Health, Wellbeing and safety
  • Preparing for the Future

Key Stage 3 Overview

The KS3 curriculum provides students with opportunities to build on their learning experiences gained during Key Stage 2.

Year 7

  • Society and Citizenship – What are our values? Pupils will learn about our community and our values including British values. They will also learn about how to be active citizens making a difference in our community.
  • Health and Wellbeing – What is health? Pupils will learn about the importance of maintaining their physical and mental health and wellbeing and the changes that happen to their bodies in puberty.
  • Aspirations and Careers – students will dive into learning about themselves—their hobbies, interests, and what they’re good at. They’ll start thinking about their dream jobs and what having a career really means. As they go along, they’ll also get to know what it means to be an entrepreneur, why work-life balance matters, and how to start planning for their future, all in a way that helps them feel confident about what’s ahead.
  • Relationships and Sexual Health – What is a positive relationship? Pupils will learn about the positive and negative qualities related to friendship and be introduced to the concept of consent. They will gain awareness of bullying and learn how to stay safe online.
  • Planning Finances – Why do we need money? Pupils will learn about how to look after their money and the importance of budgeting.

Year 8

  • Society and Citizenship – Is the UK a democracy? Pupils will learn about fundamental British values and the features of democracy including key government positions and how to get involved and be an active citizen.
  • Health and Wellbeing – Why is it important to stay fit and healthy? Pupils will learn the Importance of physical fitness and healthy lifestyles, the Impacts of germs, bacteria, viruses and the benefits of vaccinations.
  • Aspirations and Careers – students will explore their interests and hobbies while learning the basics of creating a CV by making one for a superhero. They’ll dive into the difference between challenge and reward, understanding why it’s important to find a career that’s both exciting and fulfilling. As they reflect on the kind of life they want and what success means to them, they’ll also discover the growing field of green careers, opening up new possibilities for a sustainable future.
  • Relationships and Sexual Health – How do I cope with peer pressure? Pupils will learn the characteristics of positive and healthy relationships. Further develop their understanding of consent; the role of families and how to stay safe and healthy in relationships.
  • Planning Finances – How can I look after my money? Pupils will learn the importance of budgeting and saving, making conscious spending decisions and understanding debt.

Year 9

  • Society and Citizenship – What do we mean by rights? Pupils will learn about Identities and diversity in UK society, Rights and responsibilities of teachers/learners in school and how political rights translate to the school setting enabling them to be active citizens.
  • Health and Wellbeing – How do I look after my mental health? Pupils will learn about how to maintain positive mental health and the things that can impact our mental health.
  • Aspirations and Careers – students will discover their skills, pinpoint their strengths, and identify areas for growth. They’ll explore life after secondary school, learning about the many education, employment, and training options available. As they start thinking about what they want to study after school, they’ll also get introduced to concepts like salary, wages, and taxes, and understand the importance of managing money. Finally, students will learn about the labor market and why it matters, helping them prepare for the future with confidence.
  • Spring term 2/Summer term 1 = Relationships and Sexual Health – How do my actions have consequences? Pupils will learn about equality and stereotypes and about the types of actions in relationships that are wrong.
  • Summer term 2 = Planning Finances – How can I keep my money safe? Pupils will learn about the risks associated with finances including gambling and gaming and online scams.

Key Stage 4 Overview

Year 10

  • Society and Citizenship – What is the law? Pupils will learn their rights and responsibilities as active citizens and the role of the police and judiciary.
  • Health and Wellbeing – How do I stay positive? Pupils will learn about how to recognise changes in their mental health and strategies that promote emotional wellbeing. They will also learn about the benefits of regular self examination and screening to maintain good physical health.
  • Aspirations and Careers – students will dive into life after secondary school, exploring education, employment, and training options while starting to consider their future studies. Students will make decisions about work experience, building soft skills, and honing communication, including interview techniques. They’ll prepare for mock interviews and work experience by writing their own CVs, equipping them with the tools for success in the job market.
  • Relationships and Sexual Health – How do I make good choices? Pupils will learn about online and offline risks and how our choices can impact us physically, mentally and in the eyes of the law. Pupils will also learn about reproduction and reproductive health.
  • Planning Finances – What should I do with my money? Pupils will learn about budgeting and saving, how to understand payslips, investing and insurance.

Year 11

  • Resilience – Pupils will learn how to stay healthy by spotting signs of stress and learn strategies for beating exam stress
  • Revision techniques – Pupils will learn tips for doing well in exams, positive self-help strategies, Improving working memory, effective revision techniques and self-evaluating performance
  • Aspirations and Careers – Students will get practical tips on how to prepare for their GCSEs, from study strategies to managing stress. They’ll also explore various career paths and learn about the next steps in their education, helping them make informed decisions about their future. Whether it’s choosing A-levels, vocational courses, or other options, students will gain the confidence and knowledge to navigate the transition smoothly.

Home Learning

Learning beyond the classroom will involve students taking what they have learned in lessons and applying it to their everyday life. Core knowledge will be reinforced through the use of online quizzes.

 

Enrichment and other extracurricular activities

A wide range of external speakers visit the school to deliver additional assemblies and workshops. Trips will be arranged to compliment the delivery of core curriculum themes.

 

Contact

Mr Poole, Director of PSHE
r.poole@sharplesschool.co.uk