Intent

At LAPW, we believe that Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education, including Relationships and Sex Education (RSE), is fundamental to the holistic development of our children. Our intent is to empower every child to become a well-rounded, responsible, and respectful individual who can thrive in an ever-changing world.

We aim to foster a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where children develop a strong sense of self-worth, emotional literacy, and the skills to manage their physical and mental health effectively. We encourage them to make informed choices that promote their overall well-being and understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle. We equip children with the knowledge, understanding, and skills to build and maintain positive, healthy, and respectful relationships with peers, family, and the wider community. We explicitly teach about different types of relationships, consent, boundaries, and how to seek help when needed. We aim to encourage children to become active and responsible citizens who understand their rights and responsibilities within the academy, local, and global community. We promote empathy, respect for diversity, and the ability to contribute positively to society. We provide children with opportunities to explore economic well-being, the world of work, and the importance of financial literacy. We encourage critical thinking and the development of skills necessary for future success.

Our PSHE/RSE curriculum is designed to be age-appropriate, developmentally sensitive, and aligned with the IB Learner Profile attributes and the PYP transdisciplinary themes.

We aim to develop internationally-minded learners by exploring diverse perspectives and understanding different cultural norms related to relationships, health, and societal structures. We aim to encourage children to ask questions, explore their own understanding, and take ownership of their learning in these crucial areas. We will enable children to analyse information, evaluate risks, and make informed choices about their health, well-being, and relationships. We will encourage children to reflect on values, consider the consequences of their actions, and develop a strong moral compass.

Ultimately, our intent is to equip our children with the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes to navigate their lives confidently, respectfully, and responsibly, contributing positively to their own well-being and the well-being of others, both now and in the future. We strive to create a learning environment where open dialogue, curiosity, and respect for individual differences are valued and celebrated.

Implementation

At LAPW, we believe that Personal, Social, Health Education (PSHE) and Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) are integral to the holistic development of our children, aligning directly with the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) philosophy. We are committed to fostering knowledgeable, principled, and caring young people who are equipped with the understanding, skills, and attitudes necessary to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world. Through a transdisciplinary approach, we aim to empower our children to make informed decisions about their well-being, build positive relationships, and contribute responsibly to their communities.

We empower children to take ownership of their learning in PSHE/RSE, encouraging them to ask questions, explore their own perspectives, and make choices based on their understanding. We focus on developing deep understanding of key concepts related to identity, relationships, health, and well-being, enabling children to make connections across contexts. We integrate PSHE/RSE themes and concepts across all areas of the curriculum, ensuring that learning is meaningful and relevant to children’s inquiries. We utilise an inquiry-based approach, encouraging children to explore relevant issues, ask critical questions, and develop their own understandings through investigation and reflection. We ensure that the content and delivery of PSHE/RSE are age-appropriate, sensitive to individual needs, and build upon prior learning. We foster a collaborative learning environment where children can share their ideas, learn from each other, and develop their communication and social skills. We encourage children to take responsible action based on their learning in PSHE/RSE, contributing positively to their own well-being and the well-being of others.

Our PSHE/RSE curriculum is structured around the three broad themes outlined in the statutory guidance for Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education (England, 2019), and is interwoven within the Units of Inquiry.

The theme of ‘Relationships’ explores the development and maintenance of healthy and respectful relationships, including friendships, family relationships, and online interactions. It also addresses concepts of empathy, communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution.

The theme of ‘Health and Wellbeing’ focuses on physical and mental health, including healthy eating, exercise, sleep, hygiene, safety (online and offline), emotional literacy, and strategies for managing feelings.

The theme of ‘Living in the Wider World’ explores rights and responsibilities, diversity and inclusion, respect for others, community involvement, and understanding different perspectives. It also includes aspects of economic well-being and career aspirations as children progress through the academy.

Within these themes, specific topics related to Relationships and Sex Education will be taught in a sensitive and age-appropriate manner, in line with statutory guidance and informed by consultation with parents and carers. This will include topics such as:

Understanding different types of families.
The importance of respecting everyone.
Basic body awareness and changes.
Keeping safe and knowing who to talk to.

PSHE/RSE will be delivered through a variety of engaging and interactive methods, including:

Dedicated PSHE/RSE lessons.
Integration within other subject areas and through the Units of Inquiry.
Class discussions.
Role-play and drama activities.
Stories, picture books, and videos.
Guest speakers (where appropriate and carefully selected).
Use of age-appropriate resources.
Opportunities for reflection and self-assessment.

Teachers will create a safe and supportive learning environment where children feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their thoughts and feelings. They will use sensitive language and address diverse perspectives respectfully.

Children’s learning in PSHE/RSE will be assessed through a variety of formative and summative methods, focusing on their developing understanding, skills, and attitudes. This may include:

Observation of children’s participation in discussions and activities.
Analysis of children’s reflections and book work.
Review of child-created work.
Self and peer assessment.
Teacher notes.

Assessment will be ongoing and used to inform future teaching and learning.

We recognise the crucial role of parents and carers in their children's PSHE/RSE. We are committed to working in partnership with them through:

Providing information about the PSHE/RSE curriculum.
Offering opportunities for discussion and feedback.
Involving parents/carers in relevant learning activities where appropriate.
Maintaining open communication regarding sensitive topics.

The implementation and effectiveness of our PSHE/RSE curriculum will be regularly monitored and reviewed to ensure it remains relevant, age-appropriate, and aligned with statutory guidance and the IB PYP framework. Feedback from children, staff, and parents/carers will be valued and used to inform ongoing development.

This implementation statement reflects our commitment to providing a comprehensive and empowering PSHE/RSE curriculum that supports the well-being and development of all our children.

Impact

Our PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education) and RSE (Relationships and Sex Education) programme, embedded within the framework of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP), cultivates confident, responsible, and globally-minded individuals who are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Our approach, driven by the PYP themes and the development of essential skills, fosters a profound impact on our children. Children develop a strong sense of self-identity, understanding their emotions, strengths, and areas for growth. They learn strategies for managing their well-being, including physical and mental health, leading to increased self-confidence and resilience. Children develop a deep understanding of healthy relationships, respect for diversity, and the importance of empathy and kindness. They learn to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts constructively, and contribute positively to their classroom, academy, and wider community. They understand their rights and responsibilities as active citizens. Children acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions about their physical and online safety. They understand the importance of healthy lifestyles, including nutrition and exercise, and develop strategies for seeking help and support when needed. Children begin to understand basic economic concepts, the value of resources, and the importance of responsible consumption. They develop skills in managing money and making informed choices, laying the foundation for future financial literacy.

Through age-appropriate and developmentally sensitive RSE, children develop a foundational understanding of healthy relationships, different types of families, respect for themselves and others, and the physical and emotional changes associated with puberty. This empowers them to make safe and informed choices as they grow.

By integrating PSHE/RSE within the PYP framework, we are not only meeting statutory requirements but are actively nurturing well-rounded, empathetic, and responsible learners who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to navigate the complexities of life and contribute meaningfully to a global society. Our children develop a strong moral compass, a commitment to social justice, and the confidence to embrace their individuality while respecting the diversity of others. This holistic approach ensures they are not only academically successful but also prepared to lead fulfilling and responsible lives.

What we do at LAPW...

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