Personal Development (inc. PSHE & RSE) 

Our Curriculum Intent

Our intent for all students is that their personal development experience will help them to become responsible, considerate, and respectful citizens who are able to have a positive impact in the wider community.  It is important that our students are aware of the many factors they will come across in life and how these things can have an influence, good or bad, on their lives.  We believe that this knowledge is vital; it is vital for them to make good choices in their relationships, their lifestyle, or their career paths and how these good choices can ultimately lead to their happiness and well-being, not only now but in the future.  Lastly, we want our students to be brave; brave enough to ask difficult questions, to manage difficult situations and to meet any challenge no matter how big or small with a resilient attitude. 

Our personal development curriculum develops learning and results in the acquisition of knowledge, skills and the cultural capital to continuously take positive steps towards a young person’s future.  It promotes the moral, cultural, mental, and physical development of students, preparing them for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences for later life.  We teach all statutory content such as Relationships and Sex Education in accordance with The Howard Trust RSE survey recommending the suitability of teaching particular topics.  In addition, contextual matters have a large focus based on student voice activities and issues arising in school.

Our Learning Journey

Personal Development is taught as a discrete subject in years 7-11 and through the Learning for Life programme in year 11.  Please click here for a copy of the year 7-11 learning journey.

National Curriculum Mapping

Our schemes of work are aligned with the National Curriculum and are designed to at least meet its requirements, going beyond them in many respects.

To access DfE Guidance on Personal, Social, Health & Economic Education (PSHE) and Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) click here.  

KS4 Course Information

Personal Development is not offered as a qualification, but students study PD for one lesson per fortnight. For information about KS4 courses, please refer to the KS4 Curriculum e-booklet.

KS5 Course Information

Personal Development is not offered as a qualification, however, students in year 12 and 13 study PD topics through their pastoral programme.  For information about the KS5 Courses available, click here.