PSHE forms an important aspect of pupil welfare, helping all the boys to cope with the challenges of daily life while preparing them for their future in society. It provides them with:
- the knowledge and skills needed to make thoughtful and informed decisions
- a basis on which to understand themselves and their own development.
- the ability to relate to others in positive and meaningful ways.
The course for Lower School boys is designed to help them to settle into their new environment, to develop successful relationships and to understand the challenges associated with adolescence. It encourages pupils to develop independently and as a group, whilst introducing them to serious issues in the local and wider community. In this way, they are empowered to make informed decisions about their own lives while being able to reflect on the values and attitudes both of themselves and the society around them. The course also tackles issues of personal safety in a variety of situations (including online) and bullying is explored through a range of media. It is taught by form tutors, or a specialist PSHE teacher.
The PHSE and Citizenship course in Year 9 focuses on Sex and Relationships Education followed by a series of lessons, led by external specialists, which explore mental health, bullying and issues surrounding drug use.
In Year 10, the boys consider a variety of topics such as British politics and racism through the medium of campaigning. They also have the opportunity to learn how individuals through history have made a difference to society and to consider how they themselves might go about affecting change as active citizens. They will have the opportunity to engage with, and respond to, issues of significance in contemporary society, about which they may have to make informed decisions in the future.
The Year 11 course aims to equip students for life as young adults and as such covers a range of topics. During the course they will consider various ethical questions which they may well encounter as they mature along with a unit on personal finance covering such themes as obtaining credit, savings and investments. They will also complete a careers course which develops their understanding of the professional world, helping them to produce a CV, explore ideas for their own careers, find out about the work placement scheme and develop basic first aid.