Personal, Social, Health and Careers Education (PSHCE)

Attributes of a Most Able Learner in Personal, Social, Health and Careers Education (PSHCE)

The most able learners in PSHCE (Personal, Social, Health, and Careers Education) typically demonstrate a range of attributes that go beyond just academic knowledge. These learners engage deeply with the subject, think critically, and apply their learning in meaningful ways. A Most Able learner in PSHCE holds disciplinary skills and knowledge where they can articulate knowledge to become well-rounded individuals, capable of making thoughtful decisions, engaging with others respectfully, and leading fulfilling lives. PSHCE prepares them not only for academic success in the wider curriculum but for the challenges they will face in the real world.

Make informed decisions: Use critical thinking skills to make responsible, informed choices related to health, relationships, personal safety, and well-being.

Communicate effectively: Develop the ability to listen actively, express ideas clearly, and engage in respectful conversations within three strands ‘health and wellbeing, relationships and living in the wider world’.

Understand rights and responsibilities: Demonstrate an awareness of personal rights and societal responsibilities, including British Values: The Rule of Law, Democracy, Individual Liberty and Mutual Respect and Tolerance. To uphold the respect for others’ rights and active participation in social issues and to be mindful of the Equality Act 2010 (nine Protected Statuses) aligned with Human Rights.
Understand and manage emotions: Recognise and express their feelings in a healthy way, while developing strategies for emotional regulation and resilience.

Develop positive relationships: Build and maintain healthy, respectful relationships with peers, family members, and others, understanding the importance of consent, trust, and communication.
Stay safe: Recognise potential risks in various environments (physical, emotional, and online) and take appropriate steps to protect themselves and others.

Plan for the future: Explore career options, set personal goals, and understand how to plan for future success, including financial literacy and career development.

Show empathy and social responsibility: Understand social issues, demonstrate empathy for others, and contribute positively to their communities by promoting equality, and sustainability.

By mastering these skills, our Most Able are empowered to lead healthy, informed, and responsible lives.

Learning Outside of the Classroom

Learning about PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Careers Education) outside the classroom is a great way to reinforce what our Most Able have learned where they can explore topics in greater depth.

Here are some ways Most Able can learn and grow in PSHCE independently:

Online Resources
Websites, Blogs and Documentaries: Many websites provide free resources on mental health, relationships, and personal well-being. Some useful ones are:
Mind/Kooth/CEOP/Childline (Mental and physical health resources)
Documentaries around current and historical affairs (Topic related)
BBC Bitesize (For various PSHCE topics)
YouTube: There are many YouTube channels dedicated to PSHE-related topics. Some channels focus on mental health, emotional well-being, laws and relationships.
Podcasts: There are podcasts specifically focused on self-improvement, mental health, and social issues. Listening to these during a walk or commute can be a great way to learn.

Books
Reading books on topics like mental health, relationships, money management, and personal growth can be very insightful. We have compiled a list of books that relate to topic areas. Some popular titles include:
“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey (on personal development)
“The Teenage Guide to Stress” by Nicola Morgan (mental health for teens)
“Mindfulness for Teen Anxiety” by Jennifer McGurk
Libraries or online book platforms (e.g., Audible, Kindle) often have books on PSHE-related topics that you can borrow or buy. We can also order books into the LRC if requested.

Community Involvement
Volunteering: Getting involved in the community can teach about empathy, responsibility, and the challenges faced by others. It also helps build social skills. As a wider school, we support our local food bank and get involved in sustainability: this is often led by our Most Able Lead Learners.

Joining clubs or groups that focus on social change, health awareness, or other PSHCE topics. This can be in person or online.

Self-Reflection
In Kepier, all learners keep a school journal: Writing about your feelings, experiences, and challenges can help you understand yourself better and build emotional intelligence. This affords opportunity for our Most Able learners to transfer reflection skills, critical decision making in everyday situations, and think about how they align with PSHCE lessons.

Talk to Trusted Adults or Mentors
Well thought out conversations with family members, counselors, or mentors can be invaluable. Topics through ‘health and wellbeing, relationships and living in the wider world’ can be explored and our Most Able can use their life experiences as learning tools.

Practice Healthy Habits
PSHCE isn’t just about learning—it’s about applying what you learn. Our Most Able should continue to make efforts and strides to incorporate what has been learned about health, well-being, and responsibility into daily lives. Mindfulness, exercise, sleep and balanced nutrition and the engagement in positive social activities are all encouraged to support healthy habits.

We encourage the engagement with these resources and reflection on lessons from PSHCE in everyday lives to enhance learning outside the classroom and better understand yourself and the world around you.

Recommended Reading List

Year 7:
Author:	Title:
Anita Naik	‘The Girl’s Guide to Growing Up’
Phil Wilkinson	‘The Boy’s Guide to Growing Up’
Jess Kinney	‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid – The Ugly Truth’
Sue Townsend	‘The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole’
Katherine Mengardon	‘Follow Your Dreams: 100 Inspiring and Extraordinary Jobs’
The School of Life Press	‘What Can I do when I grow up? A Young person’s guide to careers, money and the future’
Dr Dean Burnett	‘Why your parents are hung-up on your phone and what to do about it’
Ruth Morgan	‘Ant Clancy Games Detective’
Kirsty Applebaum	‘The Middler’

Year 8:
Author:	Title:
Aika Stepheson	‘In their defence – fighting for youth justice one child at a time’
Keith Gray	‘The Den’
Keith Gray	‘The Climbers’
Kiran Millwood	‘The girl of ink and stars’
Kiran Millwood	‘Julia and the shark’
Jennifer McGurk	‘Mindfulness for Teen Anxiety’

Year 9:
Author:	Title:
Paul Orton	‘The Rules’
Roger Kendall	‘Run boy run’
Paul Orton	‘Wild fury’
Paul Orton	‘Code Zero’
Nicola Morgan	‘The Teenage Guide to Stress (mental health for teens)’

Key Stage 4:
Author:	Title:
Patrice Lawrence	‘Orangeboy’
William Golding	‘Lord of the Flies’
Ferne Bowe	‘Money skills for teens’
Stephen Covey	‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (on personal development)’

How We Support Most Able Learners in Lessons

Disciplinary Skill/Knowledge	Tailored Support
Concepts Most Able can grasp key concepts quickly e.g. British Values aligned with the Equality Act and Human Rights. They can make links between different concepts easily, this includes making links between concepts and context ie: consent and the Rule of Law.	PSHCE strives to be inclusive by discussing diversity, equality, and respecting individual differences. This progressive approach helps promote understanding, tolerance, and empathy among our Most Able learners. Clear curriculum sequencing of concepts within three strands ‘health and wellbeing, relationships and living in the wider world’ aligned with school priorities. Taking a British Value and rhetorically asking for it to be contextualised. I.e What British Value aligns with consent? How does this answer marry with the Equality Act (nine Protected Characteristics) and Human Rights?
Interpretation To be able to interpret the meaning easily of key concepts within topic areas. Most Able can look at these concepts through different angles/lenses Eg How might consent look if someone did not have capacity? How might the Rule of Law apply? Our learners are encouraged to investigate and analyse legal decisions thinking about their context. Eg How the legal system works from arrest to CPS, to acquittal/conviction. Be able to make links/comparisons between worldviews and spot similarities and differences with reference to British laws/rights within a democracy and other laws within autocracy.	Access to different sources of up-to-date authority across PSHCE. These are embedded within lessons, printouts, leaflets, caches of equipment and tools to model placed within the classroom.There is a laptop in class which is accessible for further research when in lesson if required. Teacher to push British Values through rhetorical questioning, probing for better and better. Truly understanding key concepts and being able to articulate this. This is also a Department priority.
Personal Knowledge Most Able are encouraged to articulate their own understanding and point of view by the use of T3 language and within the concept of British Values ie The Rule of Law, Democracy, Individual Liberty, Mutual Respect and Tolerance.	Classroom learning environment that is conducive to safe and healthy discussion/debate and dialogue. A Department target is answering better using T3 language in context which elevates discussion, meaning and deepens understanding for everyone. Pushing for a better answer from Most Able is part of the lesson structure.
Communication Skills: PSHCE helps our Most Able to improve their ability to express themselves clearly and respectfully, whether it’s in group discussions or one-on-one conversations. This is important for building healthy relationships and dealing with conflict.	In PSHCE, communication skills are essential for expressing thoughts and feelings clearly, as well as for listening and understanding others. To develop strong communication skills, Most Able learners practice active listening, where they pay full attention to the speaker and respond thoughtfully, while also being encouraged to share their perspectives in a respectful and articulate manner. Engaging in group discussions, role-playing exercises, and debates on topics like relationships, mental health, and ethical decision-making helps build confidence and refine these skills, preparing our Most Able to calmly and effectively navigate difficult conversations in real-life situations.
Critical Thinking: Our Most Able are encouraged to analyse different viewpoints, evaluate information, and make informed decisions. For example, when discussing topics like mental health or social justice, we teach methodology to approach issues with a balanced, informed and non-judgemental perspective.	Critical thinking in PSHCE involves analysing personal, social, and health-related issues by questioning assumptions, evaluating evidence, and considering multiple perspectives. It encourages our Most Able learners to reflect on their own beliefs and values, as well as to challenge societal norms and media influences that may impact their decisions and behaviors. By applying critical thinking, students can assess the consequences of others actions, their actions, make informed choices in areas like relationships, mental health, and finances, and develop a deeper understanding of social issues, fostering responsible, well-rounded citizens.
Collaboration: Much of PSHCE involves group activities and discussions. This helps our Most Able learn to work effectively and collaboratively with others, share ideas, listen actively, and respect diverse perspectives. Unified working also promotes the true meaning of British Values in context.	Collaboration demonstrates understanding that change is a flow which can vary in pace and extent over time. Similarly, our Most Able understands that change and continuity are interwoven – some things change whilst others remain stable. Both can be present in the same time period rather than being separate entities.
Self-Reflection: PSHCE encourages our Most Able to reflect on their values, beliefs, and behaviours. By considering their thoughts and feelings, they can make better decisions and understand how their actions affect themselves and others.	When assessing levels of similarity and difference (over a set/short period of time) Most Able students will seek to group peoples; geographically, socially, religiously or economically. Most Able learners are encouraged to demonstrate the tension which inherently lies within the subject of making generalisations and revealing social complexity; diversity and typicality of human experience. (Similarity and difference over time can become change and continuity).
Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Through PSHCE, Most Able build emotional awareness, learning to identify and express their feelings, understand others’ emotions, and develop empathy for people from different backgrounds.	Most Able are encouraged to read and research beyond the classroom. Through wider reading, podcasts, documentaries, films or TV learners have a wider knowledge beyond the core powerful knowledge. They are then encouraged to bring this wider knowledge into the classroom to generate discourse through factual current information.
Personal Safety: Our Most Able learners use the knowledge about how to stay safe, both online and offline as an effective tool to mitigate risk, this is an important part of PSHCE. Learners develop confidence to handle situations like peer pressure, substance abuse, and internet safety, helping them make responsible choices.	Personal safety in PSHCE focuses on equipping everyone with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves in various situations, both physically and emotionally. This includes understanding how to recognise and avoid risky behaviours, such as substance abuse or unsafe relationships, as well as learning about online safety, including protecting personal information and recognising cyberbullying. Everyone is taught how to seek help when necessary, whether it’s through trusted adults or support services, and to develop strategies for coping with stress or peer pressure in order to maintain their well-being.
Rights and Responsibilities: Our Most Able gain an understanding of their rights, such as freedom of expression and equality, while also learning about their responsibilities toward others and society as a whole. This depth of understanding is achieved through a comprehensive understanding of British Values and how they are applied to real life events.	In PSHCE, rights and responsibilities focus on helping our learners to understand their rights as individuals and the responsibilities they have toward others and society. We encourage our Most Able to explore their legal and ethical rights, such as the right to safety, education, and freedom of expression, while also recognising their duty to respect the rights of others, contribute to their communities, and act responsibly in various situations. This includes understanding how to make informed choices, respect diversity, and contribute to a fair and just society by taking responsibility for their actions and actively promoting positive behaviors, both in class, around school and in the wider community.
Social Responsibility and Citizenship: PSHCE also covers topics such as social justice, diversity, sustainability, and citizenship. This helps our Most Able to understand their role in society and how they can contribute positively to their own lives, the lives of those around them, to Kepier and to their wider community.	In PSHCE, social responsibility and citizenship teach all of our learners about their roles and duties within their communities and society at large. This involves understanding the importance of contributing positively to social issues, such as equality, environmental sustainability, and community well-being, and recognising how their actions impact others. Our Most Able learn about their rights and how the legal and democratic processes work in the UK within the judiciary.
Economic Education: In Year 11 our Most Able learn about money management, budgeting, savings, and financial responsibility. This is particularly important at this age when preparing for adulthood and to be equipped to make informed financial decisions.	In PSHE, financial education helps our Most Able to understand how to manage money responsibly, make informed financial decisions, and develop a healthy attitude toward spending, saving, and budgeting. Learners explore key topics such as understanding the value of money, the difference between needs and wants, and the importance of saving for the future. They are also introduced to practical concepts like managing bank accounts, understanding credit, and recognising financial risks, empowering them to make smart financial choices and become financially independent as they grow older.
Careers: Careers within PSHCE supports shaping future generations, equipping our Most Able with the knowledge and skills needed for personal and societal success. As a school we inspire, motivate, and support students, fostering not only academic growth but also emotional and social development. By promoting equality, critical thinking, and lifelong learning, teachers contribute to building a better, more informed society.	In PSHE, careers education focuses on helping all of our learners explore different career options, understanding the skills and qualifications needed for various professions, and recognising the importance of personal strengths and interests in shaping future career paths. We encourage the Most Able to consider their aspirations, set goals, and develop the skills necessary for success in the workplace, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Additionally, careers education in PSHCE emphasises the value of lifelong learning, resilience in the face of challenges, and the importance of balancing work with personal well-being and responsibilities. We prepare our Most Able for Option choices, Interviews and constructing CVs.
Relationships, Sex Health Education (RSHE): PSHCE provides information on building healthy relationships, understanding consent, and learning about sexual health and behavior in a respectful and age-appropriate way.	In PSHE, RSH typically refers to Relationships and Sex Education (RSE), which focuses on providing students with the knowledge and understanding of healthy relationships, personal boundaries, sexual health, and well-being. RSH covers topics like understanding consent, respect in relationships, emotional intimacy, and the physical and emotional aspects of sexual health. It also addresses issues like safe sexual practices, the importance of communication in relationships, and how to make informed, responsible decisions regarding sexuality, ensuring students are equipped to navigate relationships in a respectful and healthy manner.
Personal Well-Being: All of our learners from Year 7 gain knowledge about how to maintain their physical and mental health, including nutrition, exercise, stress management, friendship and family dynamics and recognising the signs of mental health issues.	In PSHE, personal well-being focuses on helping students develop a strong sense of self-awareness, emotional resilience, and mental health. It includes learning strategies for managing stress, building positive self-esteem, and cultivating healthy habits that contribute to both physical and emotional well-being. Topics such as emotional regulation, understanding and managing mental health challenges, practicing mindfulness, and maintaining healthy relationships are all key components, empowering students to take care of themselves and make informed choices that enhance their overall happiness and life satisfaction.

What Can Parents/Carers Do To Support?

Supporting the Most Able students in PSHCE (Personal, Social, Health, and Careers Education) is important for ensuring they are challenged and engaged while also developing essential skills in areas such as empathy, responsibility, and understanding of societal issues.

Here are some ways parents/carers can help:

Encourage Critical Thinking: Parents/carers can support their children by engaging them in discussions about topics related to PSHCE. Ask open-ended questions that prompt them to think critically, like “How do you think people feel when…?” or “What could be a solution to this problem?”
Promote Reflection and Self-Awareness: Encourage your child to reflect on their own values, behaviors, and relationships, link this into British Values, Human Rights and The Equality Act 2010. This can help them develop within the three threads of ‘health and wellbeing, relationships and living in the wider world’ emotional
intelligence, legal and self-awareness, which are core components of PSHCE.
Provide Real-Life Contexts: Help them see how the lessons in PSHCE connect to the world around them. Discuss real-life examples, whether they’re current events, historical examples, or personal experiences, to make the lessons more relevant and engaging.
Support Independent Learning: Provide opportunities for independent research on topics related to PSHCE. This could include reading articles, watching documentaries together, or attending events that deepen their understanding of the subject matter.
Develop Emotional and Social Skills: Support them in practicing social and emotional skills outside the classroom, such as conflict resolution, listening, and empathy. These can be practiced in family settings, with friends, or in group activities.
Encourage Volunteering or Leadership: Engaging in volunteering or leadership roles helps children develop a deeper understanding of social responsibility, which is an important part of PSHCE. Look for opportunities for them to help others or take on leadership roles at school or in extracurricular activities.
Create a Supportive Home Environment: Ensure your child feels comfortable expressing their thoughts, feelings, and ideas. A supportive home environment can encourage children to engage more deeply with the content covered in PSHCE and feel confident discussing sensitive topics.
Collaborate with Teachers: If you’re aware your child is particularly able in PSHCE, consider discussing with the Department Lead ways to provide further challenge. We will be able to give additional resources or activities that push your child’s thinking even further.
Provide Resources: Give your child access to books, articles, or websites that challenge their thinking and help them delve deeper into PSHCE-related topics, such as British Values and how they relate to the Equality Act 2010, Human Rights and current affairs; mental health, ethical dilemmas, relationships,domestic and global issues.

By supporting your child’s PSHCE education in these ways, you can help them build not only academic knowledge but also important life skills and a sense of social responsibility.

Useful Websites

Useful websites will be added here