Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) Curriculum

(click here to download curriculum as pdf)

PHSE is taught throughout the school in the form of circle time, from Nursery up to Year 3, and PSHE lessons are given in Years 3, 4, 5 and 6.

PSHE is aimed at giving children knowledge and information about themselves and their environment, and giving them the confidence to talk, share ideas and make decisions for themselves.

Lower School
In the lower school, pupils study many issues and topics as part of their daily teaching, lessons concerning self-image, families, social, personal and health matters. This continues in the upper school in more depth; a number of aspects of the health education programme are also studied in English and science and explored through role-play in drama and assemblies.

Upper School
In the Upper School, various themes are covered during PSHE, including:
· relationships within families and amongst friends;
· feelings and emotions;
· building confidence and self-worth;
· conflicts and changes;
· dealing with bullying and teasing;
· acceptable and unacceptable behaviour;
· personal safety and safety in the environment;
· organisations that help;
· health and hygiene;
· bacteria and viruses;
· the body, its parts and how it works;
· what makes a healthy lifestyle;
· caring for the environment;
· topical and moral issues.

In the final year, pupils discuss personal responsibilities, changing relationships and feelings. There is some reference to understanding changes during puberty and gender difference, basic sex education, and finally, future challenges and decision-making.
All topics are discussed in class and group situations in an open and relaxed manner, and children are encouraged to join in, share their ideas and listen to each other and to express themselves confidently both orally and in written work.
The overall aims and objectives are to build confidence and self-esteem in pupils, and to encourage a greater understanding of life and the world around them, giving them the ability to make wise and informed choices as they begin to develop into young adults.