Intent

PSHE (Personal, Social and Health Education) underpins all the teaching and learning that we do at St Mary's. Our school values of 'Love, Respect and Belonging' are reinforced through our Survive and Blossom well-being programme and as the bedrock of our learning.  Through our PSHE lessons and wider curriculum, children learn about citizenship, relationships with others, health and safety and how to make a positive impact on the world around them. We also develop children's abilities to reflect on their learning and build on their skills of perseverance and resilience.

Implementation

PSHE at St. Mary’s includes high quality RSE (Relationship and Sex Education) as required by law. RSE and PSHE is lifelong learning about physical, moral and emotional development. The aim of RSE is to provide children with age appropriate information, explore attitudes and values and develop skills in order to empower them to make positive decisions about their relationships, friendships and health related behaviour.  For PSHE (including RSE) we use a long term plan developed by One Decision (a provider kite marked by the PSHE Association) and adapted for our children. Each year group will be taught separately to ensure age appropriate topics and material.  This is in parallel with our strong, compassionate survive and blossom programme, aimed to support children as they move through the school and beyond. 

Impact

When children leave St Mary’s, they will have developed key skills and attributes within our Values of Love, Respect and Belong.  They will have assimilated tools to help them cope during adversity and know how to enjoy and celebrate success. The intrinsic nature of our PSHE as a thread throughout provides an opportunity for children to see development as continuous and rewarding.

PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic education)

Environmental Stewardship: The PSHE curriculum plays a pivotal role in nurturing our children to develop an understanding of how to become environmental stewards. Through interactive lessons and activities, students learn about the importance of conservation, recycling, and sustainable living practices. They develop a deep-seated respect for nature and wildlife, empowering them to make informed choices that contribute positively to the environment both now and in the future.

Global Mindset, Diversity and Inclusion: Our PSHE curriculum fosters a global mindset by nurturing diversity and inclusion from a young age. Through age-appropriate lessons on cultural awareness, empathy, and respect for differences, children learn to appreciate diverse perspectives and develop the skills to collaborate effectively in a multicultural world. PSHE encourages openness to various cultures, beliefs, and backgrounds, laying a foundation for a more inclusive society in the future.

Play-Based Learning: Our PSHE curriculum is enhanced by play-based learning, through games and role-playing scenarios, children learn to navigate social interactions, develop empathy, and understand the importance of healthy living. Play-based learning in PSHE fosters creativity, teamwork, and emotional resilience, preparing young learners for both academic success and personal growth.

Belonging: At St. Mary’s, our PSHE curriculum strives to promote a sense of belonging as it helps children develop empathy, respect for others, and a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives, which cultivates a sense of belonging and connectedness.  By understanding their own emotions and those of others, they cultivate a supportive environment where every individual feels valued and accepted, laying the foundation for a strong sense of belonging within the school community.

Inspiration and Aspiration: By addressing topics such as goal-setting, career exploration, and personal development, PSHE encourages children to dream big and envision their futures positively. Through interactive activities and discussions, students learn to identify their strengths, build confidence, and aspire towards achieving their ambitions. This foundation not only prepares them for academic success but also instils a sense of purpose and direction from an early age.

Spiritual Development: At St. Mary’s, we foster spiritual development by encouraging the children to explore their own beliefs and values, fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder about the world around them. Through discussions, reflections, and activities, PSHE nurtures inner growth and a sense of purpose, aiding children in their journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Communication and Storytelling: Our PSHE curriculum promotes communication and storytelling by providing a structured environment where children can express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Storytelling is encouraged as a means for children to articulate their ideas and understand others' perspectives, fostering empathy, creativity, and effective interpersonal communication.

PSHE Overview by Year Group

Charlie - Our School Dog