PSHE
Overview of PSHE
PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic education) is an essential component of the curriculum at The Wisbech Academy. The aim of PSHE education is to equip students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes to thrive as responsible and informed citizens. It supports the development of well-rounded individuals who understand the complexities of the world, make informed decisions, and engage in meaningful relationships. PSHE is not only a subject but a school-wide ethos that we integrate into all aspects of school life.
Through PSHE, we foster spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development (SMSC), ensuring that students are prepared for the diverse challenges and opportunities in both their personal lives and as members of a wider community.
Purpose of PSHE
The primary goal of PSHE is to cultivate emotionally intelligent, responsible citizens who understand their personal and social responsibilities. Students learn how to manage their relationships, their physical and mental well-being, and their role within society. The curriculum focuses on fostering a deep understanding of health, relationships, and living in the wider world. Through PSHE, students also gain the ability to navigate the challenges they face in the modern world and prepare them to engage with both local and global issues.
At The Wisbech Academy, we view PSHE education as a tool to empower students. It is designed to promote a positive school climate where all students feel valued and supported. Students also develop a strong sense of empathy, tolerance, and respect for others.
Aims
- Develop Personal Well-being: Equip students with the knowledge and skills to maintain a healthy lifestyle, understand emotional needs, and manage mental health challenges.
- Promote Safe and Positive Relationships: Encourage healthy and respectful relationships, ensuring students understand boundaries, consent, and emotional resilience.
- Foster Social Responsibility and Citizenship: Build responsible and active citizens who contribute positively to their communities, demonstrating respect for others, including those of different cultures, faiths, and beliefs.
- Enhance Communication Skills: Develop students’ ability to articulate thoughts, opinions, and emotions effectively, both verbally and non-verbally, in a variety of social and professional contexts.
- Promote Economic Understanding: Educate students about financial literacy, career opportunities, and responsible decision-making regarding money and career choices.
- Encourage Critical Thinking and Reflection: Promote an ability to critically analyse situations, make informed decisions, and reflect on personal actions and consequences.
Year 7 Curriculum
In Year 7, students begin by exploring their identity and how to make a successful transition to secondary school. They learn about the values that underpin our school community - Resilience, Integrity, Service, Empathy, Gratitude, Responsibility, Openness, and Wisdom - and how these guide their actions and relationships.
Students explore key themes such as:
- Health and Wellbeing: Understanding physical and mental health, puberty, body image, and making healthy lifestyle choices.
- Relationships: Building respectful friendships, understanding consent and privacy, and navigating online interactions safely.
- Living in the Wider World: Exploring British values, democracy, and the importance of community and social action.
Year 7 Topics include:
- Transition to TWA and building identity
- British values and democracy
- Respectful behaviour and online safety
- Healthy relationships and emotional wellbeing
- Puberty, body awareness, and media influence
- Budgeting, lifestyle choices, and personal responsibility
Year 8 Curriculum
In Year 8, students deepen their understanding of equality, identity, and global citizenship. They explore complex issues such as human rights, migration, and digital literacy, while continuing to develop emotional intelligence and resilience.
Students also examine:
- Equality and Diversity: Understanding prejudice, discrimination, and the importance of the Equality Act.
- Relationships and Consent: Exploring different types of relationships, consent, and how to stay safe and respectful in both offline and online contexts.
- Wellbeing and Safety: Recognising mental health concerns, understanding the risks of substance use, and learning how to seek help and support.
Year 8 Topics include:
- Human rights and global equality
- Migration and its impact on communities
- Digital literacy and media influence
- Healthy romantic and family relationships
- Consent, harassment, and personal safety
- Mental health, wellbeing, and substance awareness
Our Approach
PSHE at KS3 is rooted in real-life relevance and student voice. Through:
- Discussion and debate
- Scenario-based learning
- Reflection and self-assessment
…students are encouraged to think critically, act responsibly, and grow into thoughtful, informed citizens.
We aim to empower every student with the knowledge, values, and skills they need to thrive, both in school and in the wider world.