Key Stage 3 PSHE

Year 7 - Transition to Secondary School and First Aid

As part of the Year 7 curriculum, students have been diving into essential topics that help them navigate their transition to secondary school life. Through their PSHE lessons, they have been exploring the challenges and opportunities that come with being part of a new section of the school, while also learning about first aid.

The move to secondary school is a big step in a young person’s life, bringing new experiences, increased responsibilities, and fresh social dynamics. In these early PSHE sessions, Year 7 students have been guided through practical strategies to help manage the changes they are experiencing, such as building new friendships, staying organised, and balancing their schoolwork with personal time. We also discussed rules and why they are in place, as well as who to talk to if we need help. Values such as teamwork, courage, respect were defined and explored, and through case studies, we discussed how to develop areas of improvement we identified. In the last lesson, students talked about first aid and what first aid to give when someone is cut and bleeding.

Students were active learners in all their PSHE lessons, willing to share their views and knowledge and making the lessons interesting and dynamic.

As the term progresses, the PSHE program will continue to build on these foundational topics, ensuring that our Year 7 students feel supported and equipped for the exciting years ahead.

YEAR 8 PSHE

Year 8 students studied the effects of drugs and alcohol on the body and mind. They discussed how substance use can affect health, decision-making, and relationships. Students also learned how to resist peer pressure and make informed choices.

As part of the lesson, they created posters showing the risks of drug and alcohol use and ways to stay safe. The activity helped them apply what they learned and express their understanding through clear, informative messages.

Year 9 PSHE Focus: Understanding Peer Influence, Substance Use, and Gangs

During the first half of this term, our Year 9 students have been exploring the theme of Peer Influence, Substance Use, and Gangs as part of their Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE) programme. The unit has encouraged students to think critically about the choices they make, the pressures they may face, and how to respond confidently and responsibly.

Through interactive discussions, role-play activities, and real-life case studies, students examined how positive and negative peer pressure can shape decision-making. They also learned about the social and emotional impact of substance use, as well as strategies for maintaining personal safety and supporting others who may be vulnerable to risky behaviours.

The topic on gang influence helped learners understand how belonging and identity can sometimes be misused, and why empathy, respect, and strong personal values are key in building healthy friendships and communities.

This unit has been an excellent opportunity for students to practise self-reflection, empathy, and assertive communication essential life skills that align with our school’s goal of developing confident individuals and responsible citizens.

As always, we encourage parents to continue these important conversations at home and support our students in making informed, positive choices.

Samuel Nyabuto

Head of Humanities