PSHE

Rationale

PSHE at The John Wallis Church of England Academy helps pupils develop the knowledge, understanding and confidence they need to lead safe, healthy, responsible and fulfilling lives.

The curriculum is designed to support pupils as they grow, helping them to understand themselves, build positive relationships, make informed decisions and respond confidently to the challenges they may face both now and in adulthood. It provides a structured space in which pupils can explore important issues honestly and thoughtfully, supported by clear information, respectful discussion and age-appropriate guidance.

Through PSHE, pupils learn about physical and mental health, relationships, personal safety, online life, financial awareness, careers, citizenship and the responsibilities that come with increasing independence. They are taught how to recognise risk, seek help, challenge harmful behaviour and make choices that protect their own wellbeing and the wellbeing of others.

Relationships and Sex Education forms an important part of this work. Pupils develop an understanding of healthy relationships, consent, boundaries, respect, equality and responsibility. They are encouraged to recognise the characteristics of positive relationships, understand when behaviour is unsafe or inappropriate, and know how and where to access support.

The curriculum also prepares pupils for life beyond school. Pupils consider the realities of employment, further education, money, housing, law, democracy and wider society. They develop the confidence to navigate an increasingly complex world, including the opportunities and risks presented by social media, technology and online communication.

PSHE is also closely connected to the ethos of The John Wallis Church of England Academy. It supports pupils to develop character, empathy, integrity and respect for others. We want pupils to leave the Academy not only academically successful, but able to make thoughtful choices, sustain positive relationships, contribute to their communities and approach adult life with confidence and resilience.

Aims

Through PSHE, pupils will:

• develop the knowledge and confidence to make informed and responsible decisions

• understand the importance of physical health, mental health and emotional wellbeing

• recognise factors that can affect wellbeing and know when and how to seek support

• understand the characteristics of healthy, respectful and positive relationships

• develop a clear understanding of consent, personal boundaries and mutual respect

• recognise unhealthy, abusive, coercive or exploitative behaviour and know how to respond

• understand how to keep themselves and others safe in a range of situations

• develop strategies for managing risk, pressure, conflict and difficult decisions

• understand how online behaviour, social media and digital communication can affect themselves and others

• recognise misinformation, manipulation and harmful online content

• understand the risks associated with alcohol, drugs, vaping and other harmful behaviours

• develop financial awareness, including budgeting, saving, borrowing and responsible financial decision-making

• prepare for further education, employment and future careers

• understand their rights, responsibilities and the importance of contributing positively to society

• explore issues relating to equality, diversity, prejudice and discrimination

• develop empathy and respect for people whose experiences, beliefs or backgrounds may differ from their own

• build confidence in discussing sensitive or complex issues respectfully

• develop resilience, self-awareness and the ability to respond constructively to setbacks

• understand where to access reliable information, advice and support

• become increasingly independent, responsible and confident in preparing for adult life.