PSHE and Citizenship

At Paddington Academy, we are committed to creating a community where every child feels they belong. Our PSHE and Citizenship curricula help students to become confident, respectful and responsible young people who can thrive in school, their communities and the wider world.

We want students to develop the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions, build positive relationships and look after their physical and mental wellbeing. Through the 'big ideas' of belonging, respect, responsibility, wellbeing and future readiness, students learn how to stay safe, value diversity and contribute positively to society.

Our curriculum is carefully sequenced so that students encounter age-appropriate content at the right time. Students begin by exploring identity, friendships and emotional wellbeing before progressing to more complex topics such as healthy relationships, consent, online safety, discrimination, financial education, careers and citizenship.

We know that understanding develops over time, so key themes are revisited throughout Key Stages 3, 4 and 5. This enables students to strengthen their knowledge and apply it in different contexts. Through explicit teaching and discussion, students learn to think critically, manage risk and seek support when needed.

PSHE and Citizenship are essential because they prepare students for life beyond the classroom, empowering them to build healthy relationships, make responsible choices and play an active role in a diverse and changing world.