PSHE (Personal, Social, Health & Economic Education)

These are taught both specifically and in in a cross-curricular way. Children are taught about living a healthy lifestyle; being responsible; working with others; and being part of their community. It is important that we educate our children how to stay safe; how to cope with and manage their emotions; and how to celebrate difference. 

We encourage our children to think critically and to listen to other viewpoints. We base our PSHE curriculum on the 1 decision programme.

Intent

PSHE education enables our pupils to develop knowledge, skills and attributes needed to manage balanced lives and to become healthy, independent and responsible members of society.  Across school, we teach children about how society is organised and governed and we ensure that they experience the process of democracy in school through the school houses.  We want children to understand their rights and responsibilities as an individual and show empathy and understanding to others. In doing so, we help develop their sense of self-worth by encouraging them to play a positive role in school life and the wider community and prepare them for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of later life.

Implementation

Pupils receive a carefully planned programme using the 1 Decision scheme to teach PSHE and RSE.  

1decision provides 17 modules, which are recommended for the teaching of PSHE and RSE for students in years 1-6.  At Patterdale, children are taught PSHE in two-mixed age groups so the content can be discussed at age-appropriate levels.  These are: Y1-Y3  and Y4-Y6.  Sex and relationship sessions are delivered exclusively to children in Years 5 and 6.  Parents have a right to withdraw their child from all or part of specific SRE lessons.

The core of the programme is a series of documentaries and videos with alternative endings, which enable children to explore various topics in a safe, educational environment. The 1 decision videos feature within their collection of over 70 on-screen lesson guides.  Please follow this link to the Parent/Carer Zone for an introduction to the 1 decision resources and how they can support your child's personal development.

Impact

Children leave our school with positive and caring relationships with themselves and their family, friends and peers, as well as a strong feeling of belonging in life. They have excellent knowledge of the idea of a healthy and safe lifestyle, independence and responsibility.

Children learn to adapt and empathise whilst developing self-confidence, self-esteem and self-discipline to reach the highest standards of which they are capable. They understand and accept change and are able to reflect on its impact.  As they progress through the school, they learn to understand and communicate within our ever developing world.  Just as importantly, they leave our school with a love of themselves and a desire to make positive contributions towards the wider world as they progress into their KS3 education. 

We know that it is important for children at Patterdale C of E School to be well prepared for secondary education.  Coming from a remote, rural community such as ours, we believe it is extra-important that children discuss difficult topics in depth and are ready for all the emotional challenges that the next step of their journey through life might bring.