The Humanities encompass a diverse range of disciplines, including History, Geography, PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic education), and Religion, Philosophy and Ethics. This subject area is dedicated to exploring the complexities of human experience, culture, and society.

Purpose of Humanities

The primary purpose of the Humanities is to cultivate empathetic, informed global citizens who are equipped to navigate and contribute to an ever-changing world. Through the study of History, students gain an understanding of the past, learning from the triumphs and challenges of previous generations. Geography allows students to explore the physical and human landscapes of our planet, fostering an appreciation for the interconnectedness of global communities. PSHE provides essential life skills, promoting personal well-being and social responsibility. Religion, Philosophy and Ethics encourages students to reflect on their own values and beliefs while respecting and understanding those of others.

At The Wisbech Academy, we aim to create a vibrant learning environment where students can share stories, explore diverse cultures, and make meaningful connections between historical events, literature, contemporary issues, and STEM disciplines. By engaging with the humanities, students develop critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and a deeper understanding of the world around them, which complements their scientific and technological education. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that our students are well-rounded individuals, prepared to navigate and contribute to a complex, interconnected world.

Aims:

• Develop Critical Thinking Skills: Encourage students to analyse, evaluate, and synthesise information from various sources to form well-rounded perspectives.
• Foster Empathy and Cultural Awareness: Promote understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures, histories, and belief systems to build empathetic global citizens.
• Enhance Communication Skills: Improve students’ ability to articulate their thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Promote Personal and Social Responsibility: Build a sense of responsibility towards oneself, others, and the environment, encouraging active participation in the community.
• Cultivate Historical and Geographical Knowledge: Provide a comprehensive understanding of historical events, geographical landscapes, and their impact on contemporary society.
• Encourage Ethical and Moral Reasoning: Develop students’ ability to reflect on ethical dilemmas and make informed decisions based on values and principles.
• Support Personal Development and Well-being: Equip students with the skills and knowledge to manage their personal well-being and navigate social and economic challenges.
• Prepare for Future Opportunities: Ensure students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful and fulfilling future, fostering confidence and self-belief.

Our Year 7 Curriculum:

In Year 7, our students are exposed to the four subdisciplines of History, Geography, PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic education), and Religion, Philosophy and Ethics. This is done throughout the academic year to ensure breadth and depth are achieved to create a solid foundation for subsequent study. To find out more about each subdiscipline, please click on the relevant heading.

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.

Our Year 7 Curriculum

Welcome to PSHE, where we embark on an exciting journey to understand ourselves and our place in the world! In Year 7, students dive into the fascinating study of personal, social, health, and economic education. This broad study sets the stage for a focused exploration of various themes and areas of development.

Throughout our lessons, students develop essential life skills such as emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and empathy. Engaging debates and discussions encourage students to challenge stereotypes and rethink traditional narratives. For instance, when exploring relationships, we highlight the importance of consent, communication, and personal boundaries, allowing students to form positive relationships both in school and beyond.

Our curriculum offers a comprehensive overview of PSHE, from understanding personal well-being to exploring global issues such as democracy and environmental responsibility. By studying PSHE, students gain a profound understanding of how to navigate the complexities of modern life.

Year 7 Topics may include:

• Introduction to PSHE
• Health and Well-being
• Relationships
• Living in the Wider World
• British Values

Join us in PSHE to uncover the skills, values, and knowledge that shape our lives!

Religion, Philosophy, and Ethics is a vital part of the curriculum at The Wisbech Academy. It supports the development of well-rounded individuals who can critically evaluate diverse perspectives, make informed decisions, and engage in meaningful discussions about life’s big questions. Through Religion, Philosophy and Ethics, 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.

We follow the Cambridgeshire locally agreed syllabus, which requires us to teach Christianity and five other world religions, humanism, and an acknowledgement of other worldviews and religions found in the locality. The curriculum is designed to challenge students to think rigorously and creatively, make informed judgments, and understand that it is acceptable to have doubts and to disagree in a reasoned and sensitive way.

Purpose of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

The primary goal of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics is to cultivate thoughtful, informed citizens who understand their personal and social responsibilities through the exploration of diverse worldviews and ethical questions. Students learn to critically evaluate different perspectives, develop their own reasoned viewpoints, and engage in meaningful discussions about life’s big questions. The curriculum focusses on fostering a deep understanding of various religious beliefs, philosophical ideas, and ethical principles.

At The Wisbech Academy, we view Religion, Philosophy and Ethics education as a way to further empower students. It is designed to promote a positive school climate where all students feel valued and supported. Through this subject, students develop a strong sense of empathy, tolerance, and respect for others, preparing them to navigate the complexities of the modern world and engage with both local and global issues.

Aims

• Develop Critical Thinking Skills: Encourage students to analyse, evaluate, and synthesise information from various religious, philosophical, and ethical sources to form well-rounded perspectives.
• Foster Empathy and Cultural Awareness: Promote understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures, histories, and belief systems to build empathetic global citizens who respect and value different viewpoints.
• Enhance Communication Skills: Improve students’ ability to articulate their thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing, through discussions and debates on religious, philosophical, and ethical issues.
• Promote Personal and Social Responsibility: Build a sense of responsibility towards oneself, others, and the environment, encouraging active participation in the community and fostering respect for diverse beliefs and practices.
• Encourage Ethical and Moral Reasoning: Develop students’ ability to reflect on ethical dilemmas, make informed decisions based on values and principles, and understand the impact of their choices on themselves and others.
• Support Personal Development and Well-being: Equip students with the skills and knowledge to manage their personal well-being, navigate social and ethical challenges, and develop a strong sense of identity and purpose.
• Prepare for Future Opportunities: Ensure students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful and fulfilling future, fostering confidence, self-belief, and the ability to engage with both local and global issues.

Year 7 Curriculum

Welcome to Religion, Philosophy and Ethics, where we embark on an exciting journey to explore the diverse world of religions, philosophies, and ethical questions! In Year 7, students are introduced to the six major world religions, beginning with Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, on a rotational basis with other Humanities subjects. This foundational knowledge sets the stage for a deeper understanding of various belief systems and ethical frameworks.

Throughout our lessons, students develop essential skills such as critical thinking, empathy, and cultural awareness. Engaging debates and discussions encourage students to challenge stereotypes and rethink traditional narratives. For instance, when exploring different religious practices, we highlight the importance of respect, tolerance, and understanding, allowing students to appreciate the rich diversity of beliefs both in school and beyond.

Our curriculum offers a comprehensive overview of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics, from understanding personal beliefs to exploring global ethical issues. By studying this subject, students gain a profound understanding of how to navigate the complexities of modern life and develop a strong sense of identity and purpose.

Year 7 Topics may include:

• Introduction to Religion, Philosophy and Ethics
• Judaism
• Christianity
• Islam
• Ethical Questions and Dilemmas
• Cultural Awareness and Respect

Join us in Religion, Philosophy and Ethics to uncover the beliefs, values, and knowledge that shape our world!