Year 11, 12 and 13 PSHE

Year 11 and 12 students talked about self-efficacy and stress management in the first few lessons of the second half of term. We defined self-efficacy and discussed our individual responses to stress. Students then reviewed their revision and study techniques, linking their recent performance in their mock examinations to the techniques they used and stating how they could do things differently to get a different, improved, outcome. In summary, we found that attitude is everything and with a positive attitude and mindset, progress will be accelerated. Students also know that they should use a variety of learning strategies and tools, devise an achievable timetable and stick to it, and ensure they plan breaks to relax, spend time with family and friends, rehydrate and eat.

Moving beyond examinations, we looked at what can set us apart from other candidates when applying to university. Students discovered a method to introduce themselves in a concise and impactful way: an elevator speech. We first defined what that is and listed what needs to be included before drafting it. As students were drafting the speech, they tested it on their classmates who gave feedback. This helped students refine the content of their speech and its delivery too. This was a valuable exercise for all students as some found that they had lots to add that would set them apart and others realised that there was work to do in that area.

Braeburn Mombasa offers students an array of opportunities to gain various experiences: leadership, public speaking, debating, sports, creative arts, coding, charity work, etc. Students must make the most of these opportunities not only to build their personal statement but also their character and values. In addition, the school supports students’ initiatives outside school, for example by recommending them for work experience. The new students’ leadership committees are yet another way to get involved and make a difference. Well done to all the students who applied to be leaders and to all the students who registered as committee members. We look forward to seeing your great work and initiatives.

Mme Mwangi

Year 13 PSHCE- Finance

This term Year 13 class have been looking at finances for PSHCE. The aim of the series of lessons was for them to have some time to think about their next steps whether they are going to continue in education or start providing for themselves. Once again, we had a diverse group of students from different cultures, with various beliefs about money that will be continuing their life journeys in a variety of countries. As some of our students study Business, and others have already started looking into how they would support themselves during further study we were able to do a lot of group work rather than just following a teacher lead path.

Within the lessons we looked at sources of income for study fees and for living expenses and what can be borrowed while studying in the form of student loans, scholarships, bursaries and work income. We further broke down living expenses in order to identify where most of their money will go and discussed ways to reduce outgoings, this lead on to lifetime expenses so they could see the transition from immediate expenses for themselves to the money they may be needing to spend when they have a family and why it is important to be thinking of the latter stages of life such as retirement. We also thought about issues such as the advantages and disadvantages of buying and renting.

This week, although we did not have a lesson, we continued our financial literacy related learning with guest speakers and further activities related to the topic with our whole school Global Money Week activities. Next week students will have time to pull together their thoughts and start planning for themselves how they will proceed.