PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education)
“Supporting every child to thrive, belong, and become extraordinary.”
Intent
At Newchurch St. Mary’s Primary Academy, our PSHE curriculum is designed to empower children with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead happy, healthy, and purposeful lives. We believe that PSHE is essential in developing the whole child—emotionally, socially, morally and spiritually—preparing them for the challenges of modern life and supporting their mental health and well-being.
We follow the Coram Life Education scheme, which we adapt thoughtfully to reflect the unique needs of our pupils and the context of our school. The curriculum is broad and balanced, covering real-life issues in a child-friendly and age-appropriate way. Sensitive subjects are introduced with care and respect, helping pupils to understand the world around them while developing empathy, respect and self-awareness.
Rooted in our school vision that “ordinary people can choose to be extraordinary,” our PSHE teaching aims to develop children who are resilient, confident, and equipped with a growth mindset. We want every child to recognise their worth, believe in their potential, and thrive in a multicultural and diverse society, regardless of their social or academic background.
Implementation
PSHE is taught weekly in all year groups through the Coram SCARF scheme (Safety, Caring, Achievement, Resilience, Friendship), which provides a clear and progressive structure from Early Years to Year 6. The scheme is carefully adapted to meet the specific needs and contexts of our pupils, taking into account the community we serve and the wider world in which our children are growing up.
The curriculum is built around six core themes:
- Me and My Relationships
- Valuing Difference
- Keeping Safe
- Rights and Responsibilities
- Being My Best
- Growing and Changing
Through these themes, children explore topics such as friendship, mental health, online safety, personal identity, financial awareness, and changing bodies. Teaching is engaging, discussion-based and reflective, allowing children to ask questions, share experiences and develop empathy and understanding.
We also integrate PSHE into daily school life through assemblies, theme days, pupil voice opportunities, and by modelling and promoting our school values. Staff receive ongoing support and training to deliver PSHE with confidence and sensitivity.
Impact
Our PSHE curriculum supports children in becoming well-rounded, resilient, and emotionally literate individuals. By the time pupils leave Newchurch St. Mary’s, they are able to:
- Understand and manage their emotions and relationships in healthy and respectful ways.
- Demonstrate confidence, resilience and a positive attitude towards learning and life.
- Speak openly about important issues, knowing how to keep themselves and others safe.
- Value difference and thrive in a diverse, multicultural society.
- Recognise their potential and believe that, regardless of background, they can choose to be extraordinary.
Ultimately, our PSHE provision equips pupils not only to succeed academically but also to flourish as kind, responsible and empowered citizens in today’s world.