PSHE/RSE
I’m Mr King, PHSE (personal, social, health and economic wellbeing education) subject leader. This is such an important subject, as it equips our pupils with the knowledge and skills to make informed choices so that they can lead confident, healthy lives and form positive relationships with others.
We also have a legal duty to teach RSE (relationships and sex education). As with PHSE, this is integral to children’s development and physical and mental health. St Mary’s follows the Kapow Primary PHSE/RSE scheme of work which focuses on relationships, wellbeing, citizenship, safety (online and in daily life) and economic wellbeing.
Our lessons take a fully inclusive approach to teaching PHSE/RSE and we often find that children readily relate to the topics because of their own experiences. PHSE creates a safe space for our children to discuss their feelings and emotions and develop their self-esteem, whilst learning to stay safe, healthy and ready for life's challenges.
Mr King, PHSE subject leader
In PSHE and RSE, inclusion ensures that all children can access and engage with these sessions. We break down key concepts such as healthy relationships, personal safety, and emotional wellbeing, and explicitly teach vocabulary to support understanding. Lessons include clear modelling, structured talk, and scaffolded tasks so all children can participate and work towards the same outcomes.
Our curriculum reflects diverse voices and experiences across race, religion, gender, family structure, social background, culture, and disability, helping all children to see themselves represented while developing respect and curiosity about others. To support this, we use a bespoke set of illustrated characters from Kapow Primary. Presented as unique individuals who grow alongside our pupils, these familiar characters allow children to explore sensitive topics and practise problem-solving from a safe emotional distance without feeling pressured to share personal experiences.