School Life
Discover academic excellence, personal development, and a vibrant community at Ernest Bevin Academy.
PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education)
At Ernest Bevin Academy, PSHE education is a planned program of learning through which our students acquire the knowledge, understanding, and skills they need to manage their lives now and in the future. As part of our whole-school approach, PSHE develops the qualities and attributes students need to thrive as individuals, family members, and members of society.
Our PSHE curriculum addresses many of the social, moral, spiritual, and cultural questions that arise in a rapidly changing world. It equips our students with the knowledge, skills, and understanding to play an effective role in public life and be responsible citizens. PSHE education helps our students to connect and apply the knowledge they gain in all subjects to practical, real-life situations.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
Our Key Stage 3 PSHE curriculum builds on previous learning and introduces new concepts and skills appropriate to the developmental stage of students. The curriculum is organized into three core themes:
Health and Wellbeing
Focus on:
- Physical health and fitness
- Mental health and emotional wellbeing
- Healthy lifestyles
- First aid and safety
- Puberty and body changes
Relationships
Focus on:
- Positive relationships
- Relationship values
- Respect and equality
- Bullying and peer pressure
- Online safety and media literacy
- Personal identity
Living in the Wider World
Focus on:
- Rights and responsibilities
- Financial literacy
- Career exploration
- Environmental awareness
- Diversity and community
- British values
Year 7
Autumn Term
- Transition to secondary school
- Personal health and hygiene
- Friendship skills and managing conflict
- Online safety and digital footprint
Spring Term
- Puberty and body development
- Diet, exercise, and healthy lifestyles
- Understanding feelings and emotions
- Introduction to financial decisions
Summer Term
- Diversity and respect
- Rights and responsibilities in school
- Careers and future aspirations
- Being an active citizen
Year 8
Autumn Term
- Mental health and emotional wellbeing
- Body image and self-esteem
- Healthy relationships
- Media influences and critical thinking
Spring Term
- Risk-taking behaviors
- Drugs, alcohol, and tobacco awareness
- First aid fundamentals
- Personal budgeting and saving
Summer Term
- Discrimination and prejudice
- Enterprise skills and the world of work
- Rights and responsibilities in communities
- Environmental responsibility
Year 9
Autumn Term
- Peer pressure and decision making
- Intimate relationships and consent
- Online relationships and safety
- Mental health challenges and support
Spring Term
- Substance misuse in detail
- Managing conflict and seeking help
- Financial risk and gambling
- Career pathways and options
Summer Term
- GCSE options and future planning
- Human rights and international issues
- Government, politics, and voting
- Challenging extremism and radicalization
Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)
Our Key Stage 4 PSHE curriculum builds on the foundations laid in Key Stage 3, addressing more complex and sensitive issues. The curriculum continues to cover the three core themes but with more emphasis on preparation for adult life and independence.
Year 10
Autumn Term
- Mental health and stress management
- Sexual health and safe sex
- Healthy and unhealthy relationships
- Social media and digital literacy
Spring Term
- Drugs and alcohol: legal implications
- Personal safety and risk management
- Financial products and services
- Employment rights and responsibilities
Summer Term
- Preparation for work experience
- CV writing and interview skills
- Democracy and political participation
- Global citizenship and sustainable development
Year 11
Autumn Term
- Relationships and parenting
- Sexual health services and support
- Mental health disorders and treatment
- Exam stress and revision techniques
Spring Term
- Post-16 options and applications
- Independent living skills
- Financial management and budgeting
- Health and safety at work
Summer Term
- Transition to post-16 education
- Responsible citizenship
- Personal values and future goals
- Managing change and new challenges
Assessment and Feedback
PSHE education at Ernest Bevin Academy is not formally assessed through examinations. However, we use a variety of assessment methods to track progress and provide feedback:
- Self-assessment activities
- Peer assessment of group work and presentations
- Teacher assessment through observation and discussion
- Student reflective journals and portfolios
- End of unit reviews and personal target setting
Progress in PSHE is reported to parents through regular school reports and during parents' evenings, focusing on engagement, understanding, and personal development rather than academic grades.
Additional Opportunities
Theme Days and Workshops
Throughout the year, we organize theme days and external workshops focusing on specific PSHE topics such as mental health awareness, careers, personal safety, and financial education.
External Speakers
We regularly invite external speakers and organizations to provide expert input on specialist topics, including health professionals, community leaders, and representatives from various charities and services.
Student Leadership
Students can take leadership roles in PSHE through our peer mentoring program, student council, and by becoming mental health ambassadors or anti-bullying champions.
How Parents Can Help
- Discuss PSHE topics at home to reinforce school learning
- Encourage your child to share their thoughts and concerns about personal and social issues
- Model healthy relationships and effective communication
- Support your child in developing financial literacy through pocket money, savings, etc.
- Stay informed about the PSHE curriculum and discuss any concerns with your child's form tutor
- Provide appropriate guidance on online safety and social media use
- Engage with careers guidance and support your child's aspirations
Useful Resources
School Resources
- PSHE Curriculum Overview (Download PDF)
- Parent Guide to PSHE Education (Download PDF)
- Relationships and Sex Education Policy (Download PDF)
- Mental Health Support Information (Download PDF)