Secondary schools do not have to teach PSHE, but the government encourages them to do so. However, it might not be taught as a subject in its own right - it could be taught through other subjects or by creating special opportunities for pupils to take responsibility.
1. Developing Confidence and Responsibility
Children are taught:
- to respect the differences between people as they develop their own sense of identity
- to recognise how others see them
- to be able to give and receive constructive feedback and praise
- to recognise the stages of emotions associated with loss and change caused by divorce, death, separation and new family members
- how to deal positively with the strength of their feelings in different situations
- what influences how we spend or save money
- how to become competent at managing personal money.
- to reflect on and assess their strengths in relation to personality, work and leisure
- to relate job opportunities to their personal qualifications and skills
- to understand how the choices they will make at key stage 4 should be based on knowledge of their personal aptitudes and strengths and on the changing world of work
- to plan realistic targets for key stage 4
2. Developing a Healthy, Safe Lifestyle
Children are taught:
- to recognise the physical and emotional changes that take place at puberty
- how to manage changes in a positive way
- to recognise when pressure from others threatens their personal safety and well-being,
- to develop effective ways of resisting pressures
- what influences health
- how to keep healthy
- the things in life that can promote physical and mental health
- to recognise and manage risk and make safer choices about healthy lifestyles
- basic facts and laws, such as:
- school rules
- alcohol
- tobacco
- illegal substances
- the risks of misusing prescribed drugs
- the importance of relationships
- human reproduction, contraception, sexually transmitted infections, HIV and high-risk behaviours including early sexual activity
- basic emergency aid procedures and where to get help and support.
3. Respecting Others
Children are taught:
- about the effects of all types of stereotyping, prejudice, bullying, racism and discrimination
- how to challenge stereotyping assertively
- to resist pressure to do wrong,
- to recognise when others need help and how to support them
- how to empathise with people different from themselves
- to communicate confidently with their peers and adults.
- the changing nature of relationships with friends and family
- to recognise some of the cultural norms in society, including the range of lifestyles and relationships
- about the role and importance of marriage in family relationships
- about the role and feelings of parents and carers
- about the value of family life
- about the nature of friendship
- how to make and keep friends
- to recognise that goodwill is essential to positive and constructive relationships
- to negotiate within relationships, recognising that actions have consequences, and when and how to make compromises
