Senior PSHE – Autumn Term

Author: Sam Hardcastle.
13th December 2023.

PSHE has always been central to the curriculum but in recent years, due to the rapid-changing nature of the world our children live in, it has become more important than ever. At Mayville, we have been able to respond to this demand by introducing weekly timetabled lessons for every pupil in the Senior School. The PSHE department has worked incredibly hard to develop a curriculum that meets the needs of all pupils and equips them with the skills and knowledge they need to live in modern society.

Throughout the Autumn Term, we have covered a wide range of material. Year 7 (Remove) looked at transitioning to senior school and their personal characteristics and values. Year 8 (L4) spent time exploring drugs and alcohol and digital literacy and Year 9 (U4) focussed on resolving conflict in relationships and the impact of alcohol and drug abuse. Year 10 (L5) returned to the topic of substance abuse and how they can safely navigate peer influence on decision making, as well as discussing how to make their communities safer by being aware of extremism and radicalisation. In the term prior to mock examinations and applying to college, Year 11 (U5), concentrated on understanding their learning styles, investigating different study methods, writing emails and cover letters and their physical and emotional wellbeing.

In addition to the weekly programme, we have been really fortunate to hold a range of workshops. We welcomed Drug Education UK to speak to all pupils in year 9 (U4) and year 11 (U5). Pupils were updated on changes in the law regarding nitrous oxide, as well as making them aware of new and emerging illegal substances.

“

Identifying substance related risks and protection factors are essential to a young person’s development at various key stages.”

Barry Evans, DRED UK

Year 11 (U5) attended a session on mind maps from Revision Mentor and a further seminar from Elevate Education called Ace Your Exams; both workshops were designed to help the pupils maximise their revision.

Lastly, HSDC visited pupils in year 10 (L5) and talked about college application forms.

There are more workshops planned for the Spring and Summer Terms, on digital literacy and financial wellbeing.

As part of the careers element of PSHE, year 11 (U5) attended an apprenticeship assembly from PETA and year 10 (L5) have been applying for their Summer Term work experience placements and attending career guidance interviews with advisors from EBP South. Pupils in year 10 (L5) and year 11 (U5) visited a careers and apprenticeship show at Fratton Park where they were able to meet with a wide range of professionals from different sectors and many local education providers were also in attendance.