What is the importance of the subject? Why should pupils be studying it? Why should they care about it? How might the subject link to the real world / real life scenarios?
Personal Development (PD) at Millom School plays a crucial part in developing The Millom Learner; equipping pupils with the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to keep themselves healthy and safe, and prepare for life and work in modern Britain. Evidence shows that PD has an impact on both academic and non-academic outcomes for pupils, particularly the most vulnerable and disadvantaged. PD is not an examined subject as there is no qualification at Key Stage 4 or 5, however, we feel strongly that the 1 hour per week that all students receive is essential to their development as young people and good citizens in society.
What are the key concepts or big ideas underpinning the subject?
PD aims to develop skills and attributes such as resilience, self-esteem, risk-management, team working and critical thinking through a range of topics including citizenship, careers education information advice and guidance (CEIAG), religious education (RE), health studies and sex and relationship education (SRE). Within lessons pupils are encouraged to develop knowledge, self-esteem, confidence, self-respect, respect for others and empathy. They should also understand how to distinguish right from wrong.
Across the Key Stages pupils will study and have access to a broad and balanced personal social and health education (PSHE) curriculum, which explores topics within three core themes: health and wellbeing, relationships and living in the wider world. Within religious education and citizenship, pupils have the opportunity to explore and develop British Values, which promote democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.