PHSE

Why is PSHE important?

PSHE is a foundation subject in the National Curriculum. PSHE enables pupils to develop the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to manage their lives, now and in the future. PSHE education helps pupils to stay healthy, safe and prepared for life – and work – in modern Britain. Our PHSE curriculum is the building block for children’s personal development at our school, addressing themes such as developing positive moral attributes, including courage, honesty and a sense of justice, the acquisition of social confidence- listening attentively to others, being courteous and able to express themselves and self belief which is associated with highly motivated children.

At Alexandra Primary School, we follow the Jigsaw Jack scheme of learning from EYFS through to Y6. This comprehensive curriculum includes statutory Relationships and Health Education. Throughout the curriculum, there is a strong emphasis on emotional literacy, building resilience and nurturing mental and physical health, so that all children at Alexandra can thrive.  

Rooted in Knowledge

Planning for PSHE is based on the Jigsaw Jack scheme of learning. This is a sequential and progressive programme, designed to build on the knowledge and skills needed to help pupils navigate their world and build relationships with themselves and others. Each year all pupils will study six topics: Being Me in My World, Celebrating Difference, Dreams and Goals, Healthy Me, Relationships and Changing Me. The spiral nature of this scheme allows knowledge to be revisited and reviewed, before progressing onto new learning.

How is learning sequenced?

Learning is sequenced using the Jigsaw scheme of learning.

In the EYFS the essential building blocks of PSHE are established. There are regular opportunities for children to learn about themselves and their families, celebrate differences, discuss their own dreams and goals inside and outside of school, look at healthy friendships and boundaries and how change is a natural, healthy process.

Sessions will also focus on mindfulness allowing children to advance their emotional awareness, concentration and focus. Children are taught methods to help them self-regulate so that they can begin to manage their emotions and behaviours.

Learning sequence in KS1 and KS2

In PSHE, teachers assess children’s progress by making observations during lessons and discussions and using evidence in books. Assessment is used to inform future lessons, ensuring children are supported and challenged appropriately.

Due to the practical nature of  PSHE, tasks and conversations are often evidenced by photographs or quotes from children. Parents are updated on age related expectations at the end of the year.

PSHE is monitored through a variety of strategies, including: planning and book scrutiny, lesson observations and pupil voice activities.

Our school values of excellence, nurture, community and exploration are at the core of our teaching and learning.

Parents of children in Years 4, 5 and 6 may withdraw their child from one lesson of the Changing Me curriculum in relation to sex education. Relationships and health education are compulsory parts of the curriculum. If you wish to withdraw your child from this lesson, please complete this form and return it to the office.