Personal, Social, Health Education
At St John’s Catholic Primary School, Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE) enables our children to grow as healthy, confident and responsible members of society. Through a carefully planned programme of learning, pupils develop an understanding of themselves and others as they grow personally, socially and spiritually. The curriculum supports children in exploring the moral, social and cultural aspects of life, helping them to make positive choices, build healthy relationships and recognise their God-given dignity as individuals made in the image and likeness of God.
Personal development at St John’s is delivered through a structured, progressive curriculum from Early Years to Year 6 using the Unifrog PSHE Curriculum scheme. This provides clearly sequenced learning for each year group and ensures that pupils build knowledge and skills year by year. The programme incorporates statutory Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE), while also supporting wider aspects of personal development including emotional literacy, mental health, wellbeing, online safety, economic awareness and citizenship.
Our approach is enriched and strengthened through the integration of our Catholic curriculum. Relationships and Sex Education is taught through the Journey in Love programme, which presents relationships, human dignity and growth in love within the context of Catholic teaching. Religious Education is delivered through the Religious Education Directory, ensuring that pupils develop a deep understanding of faith, morality and their relationship with God. Together, these programmes support pupils in developing their spiritual, moral, social and cultural understanding.
Across all year groups, pupils are provided with opportunities to learn about rights and responsibilities and to appreciate what it means to be part of a diverse and respectful society. They are introduced to key aspects of financial awareness and decision-making, helping them to understand the importance of responsible choices. Children are encouraged to develop their sense of self-worth and confidence by taking an active role in school life and contributing positively to the wider community.
Personal development is also nurtured through assemblies, prayer and liturgy, collective worship, circle time, pupil leadership opportunities, charitable activities and the wider curriculum. Through these experiences, pupils are encouraged to reflect on their values, develop empathy for others and grow as compassionate citizens.
At St John’s, we recognise that the promotion of Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) development is central to our mission as a Catholic school. The fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance are promoted throughout the curriculum and daily school life. We understand these values as closely aligned with Gospel values, forming an integral part of our Catholic identity and our commitment to preparing children to live well together in modern Britain.
