PSHE & RSE

At Harris Academy Falconwood, our Personal, Social, Health, and Economic and Relationship, Sex Education (PSHE/RSE) programme is designed to empower students with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate their lives confidently and responsibly. Guided by our school vision Knowledge is Power, We Make it Stick, our PSHE/RSE curriculum aims to foster resilience, critical thinking, and a sense of community among our students.

Each of the lessons delivered to students across all key stages promote our personal development strands. The strands are as follows:

Key Stage 3 (KS3, x1 85-minute lesson bi-weekly)

At KS3, we focus on foundational skills and awareness. Students explore topics such as:

• Self-Awareness and Identity: Understanding personal strengths and values.
• Healthy Relationships: Building respect and empathy in interactions with the people around us. As well as looking at what healthy relationships are including the impact these can have on physical and mental health. There is also a focus here on online and physical relationships.
• Wellbeing and Mental Health: Recognising the importance of mental health and coping strategies. The influences surrounding mental health and how positive mental health can be promoted in several ways.
• Financial Literacy: Basic money management and understanding personal finance.

Through engaging lessons and activities, students develop essential life skills that will serve them throughout their educational journey.

 

Key Stage 4 (KS4, x1 50-minute lesson weekly)

As students’ progress to KS4, our PSHE curriculum deepens in complexity and relevance. Key areas of focus include:

• Career Planning and Development: Exploring future pathways and employability skills.
• Personal Safety and Risk Management: Understanding online safety, substance misuse, and consent.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Celebrating differences and promoting respect for all individuals.
• Healthy Relationships: Understanding what a healthy relationship is and how to always keep themselves safe.

 

Students are challenged to think critically about societal issues, preparing them for informed participation in the world around them.

 

Key Stage 5 (KS5, x1 50-minute lesson weekly)

In KS5, our PSHE program is tailored to equip students for adulthood and independence. Key topics include:

• Advanced Financial Literacy: Understanding taxes, savings, and investments, student loans.
• Mental Health Awareness: In-depth discussions on mental health challenges and support systems.
• Ethics and Morality: Exploring ethical dilemmas and developing a personal moral framework.
• Leadership and Community Engagement: Encouraging active involvement in community projects and leadership opportunities.

 

Our aim is to prepare students for a successful transition into higher education, work, and community life, fostering a sense of responsibility and empowerment.

We believe that education is a powerful tool for change. Our PSHE/RSE curriculum not only supports academic learning but also nurtures well-rounded individuals ready to face the challenges of the modern world.