PSHE
A vital part of the success of our pastoral system is our PSHE programme, which is taught as a discrete subject and is integral to the health, personal and social well-being of each of our pupils.
Year 7-8 PSHE
In Year 7 and Year 8, PSHE is based around the themes of: positive relationships, my place in the community, study skills and health. Pupils benefit from a relevant, fun and enjoyable programme, which enhances self-esteem and autonomy and enables them to develop the communicative and social skills needed to make well-informed, safe and healthy choices throughout their lives.
Pupils are encouraged and assisted to take on responsibilities and to become active members of our community.
Pupils are introduced to CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection) strategies to educate them about online safety. The school counsellor also delivers sessions to the girls on various topics, including mindfulness.
The key transferable study skills of organisation, research and effective revision are also covered within the programme.
Year 9-11 PSHE
PSHE is a fun, enjoyable programme, taught as a discrete subject that enhances pupils' self-esteem and autonomy and prepares them with the necessary communicative and social skills needed in life to make well-informed, safe and healthy choices.
The PSHE programme includes aspects of health, careers and political education, legal and economic issues, personal relationships and responsibilities, community and social studies, as well as wellbeing and study skills. The programme recognises the importance of pupils' lives outside and beyond school and provides the opportunity for individuals to develop the skills, knowledge, attitudes and understanding that are required as they pass through their teenage years and prepare for adult life.
In addition to sessions delivered by the form tutor, the Head of Upper School and the school counsellor, specialist speakers talk to the pupils about issues such as mental and sexual health, drugs awareness and the court system. The school also works with Elevate Education to deliver sessions on revision and examination technique.
Pupils in Year 9 and Year 10 are encouraged to become active members of the wider community by organising a community link visit with their form.
In Year 11, all pupils complete a Morrisby psychometric profile which identifies abilities, aptitudes, personality traits and interests. They receive a detailed follow up report as well as a one-to-one interview with an experienced member of staff to help them with the process of career planning beyond GCSE.
The school also subscribes to Unifrog, an online platform which helps pupils to make informed choices post 16.