PSHE

At Wingfield Academy, Personal Social Health and Economic [PSHE] education offer at both KS3 and KS4 is a spiralled curriculum, taught via a competencies approach. The curriculum model considers the context of the academy, the needs of our students, the aims and ethos of the academy and the local community and environment in which the school is situated. The competencies- based approach to PSHE education aims to ensure a structured and progressive learning journey, building knowledge, skills, and attributes. The curriculum is designed to meet the specific needs, developmental stage and learning abilities of students at different age groups. Our curriculum builds on prior learning at KS2 and progressively introduces new concepts as students advance through their schooling.

The competencies-based approach core competencies are as follows:

• Independence and Aspirations
• Autonomy and Advocacy
• Choices and Influences.

The competencies are developed through the context of different topic areas, each with its own knowledge content. Risk management and help-seeking strategies are addressed throughout PSHE education, however there are some units of work where this is especially relevant or essential within the learning.

PSHE at Wingfield Academy – Long Term Overview

KS3 39-Week Plans and Resources

KS4 39-Week Plans and Resources

Relationships Education and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education

RSE:

At Wingfield, we recognise that high-quality Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSE) is an essential part of preparing young people for healthy, safe, and fulfilling lives. In line with the Department for Education’s Statutory Guidance for RSE and Health Education (2025), our curriculum is designed to help students develop the knowledge, skills, attributes, and values needed to navigate adolescence and adulthood with confidence and responsibility. RSE at our school provides a safe, respectful learning environment where sensitive issues can be explored, ensuring students are well-informed, resilient, and able to make positive choices that support their wellbeing and the wellbeing of others.

At Key stage 3, our RSE curriculum introduces students to the foundations of healthy relationships, focusing on respect, consent, diversity, equality, and communication. Pupils will develop the knowledge and skills to understand the physical and emotional changes of puberty, the basics of sexual health, and the importance of digital safety. Through developing empathy, resilience, and self-esteem, they will learn to challenge stereotypes, recognise unhealthy behaviours, and make informed decisions in their personal lives. The curriculum promotes values of respect, kindness, and responsibility, equipping students with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships both in person and online.

At Key stage 4, students build upon these foundations by developing a deeper understanding of complex issues around relationships, sexuality, sexual health, consent, and the impact of choices on long-term wellbeing. They will explore the responsibilities of adulthood, including family planning, reproductive health, and the law in relation to sex and relationships. Students will also critically examine the influence of harmful gender stereotypes, including toxic masculinity, misogyny, and the risks associated with online communities such as incel groups, to understand how these attitudes can negatively impact individuals and society. By developing critical thinking, resilience to online harms, and strong communication skills, students will be empowered to challenge unhealthy narratives, promote equality, and foster safe, respectful, and positive relationships. The curriculum emphasises values of mutual respect, equality, and personal responsibility, preparing students for safe, healthy, and respectful relationships into adulthood, and enabling them to contribute positively to wider society.