PSHE – Personal, social and health education

What we are aiming for

At Bassenthwaite, Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education supports children’s personal development and wellbeing, helping them to grow into confident, kind and responsible individuals.

PSHE helps children to understand themselves and others, build healthy relationships and learn how to keep themselves safe, both physically and emotionally. Pupils are encouraged to be curious about the world around them, to ask questions and to reflect on their choices and values.

Through PSHE, children learn to recognise and manage their feelings, develop resilience and show empathy towards others. Learning supports children to grow in confidence as they share ideas, listen respectfully and make thoughtful decisions.

We want children to leave Bassenthwaite with the knowledge, skills and attitudes they need to lead happy, healthy lives and to play a positive role in their community and the wider world.

How learning happens

Mixed-age classes

PSHE is taught in mixed-age classes where a supportive and respectful environment allows children to share ideas, experiences and concerns safely. Units are planned on a rolling cycle to ensure clear progression as children move through the school.

Teachers build on children’s prior learning using discussion, stories, scenarios, role play and reflection to support understanding and personal growth.

How we get there

PSHE is taught through questions, discussions and scenarios that encourage children to think, reflect and talk about real-life situations. Lessons help children understand themselves, their relationships and their responsibilities in the wider world.

Children learn through:

  • discussion and circle time
  • role play and real-life scenarios
  • reflection and self-awareness activities
  • learning about safety, health and wellbeing
  • exploring rights, responsibilities and choices

Learning is organised around three key strands: Health and Wellbeing, Relationships, and Living in the Wider World. Vocabulary is introduced and revisited so children can explain ideas and feelings clearly as their understanding develops.

Knowledge, vocabulary and personal development

Our PSHE curriculum develops both:

  • personal knowledge, including health, emotions, relationships and safety
  • life skills, including communication, decision-making, resilience and responsibility

Key vocabulary is taught progressively so children can describe emotions, discuss relationships and understand ideas linked to wellbeing, citizenship and the wider world. Children are encouraged to think independently while showing empathy and respect for others’ experiences.

What children gain

Through PSHE, children:

  • develop confidence and self-esteem
  • learn how to manage emotions and cope with challenges
  • build positive, healthy relationships
  • develop empathy, kindness and respect for others
  • understand how to keep themselves safe and healthy
  • learn about their role in the community and wider society

PSHE supports children’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural development by encouraging reflection, responsibility and care for themselves and others.

By the time they leave Bassenthwaite, pupils are prepared to make informed choices, show resilience and contribute positively to society.

How we know

We know children are making progress in PSHE through their growing confidence, emotional awareness and ability to talk thoughtfully about wellbeing, relationships and choices.

Teachers assess learning through:

  • discussion and questioning
  • observation of participation and reflection
  • written and creative responses
  • opportunities for self-assessment and review

Ongoing assessment and revisiting key ideas ensure understanding is secure and continues to develop as children move through the school.

How you can help at home

Parents and carers play an important role in supporting children’s personal and emotional development.

Talk openly and listen

Encourage your child to talk about their day, friendships and feelings. Listening carefully and taking their concerns seriously helps children feel safe and valued.

Support emotional wellbeing

Help your child name their feelings and talk about how to manage them. Remind them that all feelings are normal and that it is okay to ask for help.

Promote healthy relationships

Talk about kindness, respect and fairness at home. Encourage your child to think about how their actions affect others and how to resolve disagreements calmly.

Encourage independence and responsibility

Give your child age-appropriate responsibilities and encourage them to make choices. This helps build confidence and resilience.

Reinforce online and personal safety

Discuss staying safe online, trusted adults, and what to do if something makes them feel uncomfortable. Regular conversations help children make safe choices.

Helpful websites for families