Intent
At Lostock Hall Academy, our Personal Development curriculum is designed to inspire aspirations, nurture character and equip every student with the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to thrive in modern society. In line with our vision, we provide a safe, inclusive and supportive environment where all young people are encouraged to develop confidence, resilience, empathy and ambition.
Our programme follows a thematic model built around three interconnected core themes:
Core Theme 1: Health and Wellbeing
Including the statutory Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) and Health Education guidance.
Core Theme 2: Relationships
Including the statutory Relationships and Sex Education guidance.
Core Theme 3: Living in the Wider World
Including careers education, financial literacy and preparation for future opportunities.
Through a carefully planned and progressive programme of learning, students develop the understanding, attitudes and practical skills needed to make informed decisions, build positive relationships, manage challenges and contribute positively to their communities. Our curriculum empowers students to become ambitious, responsible and well-rounded individuals who are prepared for life beyond school.
Implementation
Students in both Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 receive one hour of Personal Development education each week. Lessons are carefully sequenced to build knowledge over time and encourage meaningful discussion, reflection and personal growth.
To enrich and enhance learning, students also benefit from a wide range of opportunities, including:
- Visits from external agencies delivering specialist workshops and guidance
- Educational off-site visits and experiences
- Guest speakers from a variety of professional and community backgrounds
- Careers-focused events and encounters
- Opportunities that broaden cultural awareness and personal aspiration
These experiences help students make connections between their learning and the wider world, further developing their confidence, understanding and aspirations.
Please see our Learning Journey for further details:
Impact
Our Personal Development curriculum prepares students not only for their next stage of education, employment or training, but also for successful and fulfilling lives as active members of society.
By the time students leave Lostock Hall Academy, they will have developed a secure understanding of key aspects of Personal Development, including:
- Health and Wellbeing
- Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE)
- Careers and the World of Work
- Financial Education
- Fundamental British Values
- Personal Safety and Responsible Citizenship
Students will demonstrate maturity, respect, empathy and resilience. They will be equipped with the cultural capital, confidence and skills needed to embrace future opportunities, make informed choices and contribute positively to their communities. In keeping with our academy values, they will leave as ambitious, caring and responsible young citizens who are ready to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Student learning is assessed through knowledge checks and multiple-choice quizzes at the end of each half term. This enables us to identify misconceptions, monitor progress and refine future curriculum planning to ensure all students achieve success.
Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE)
Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) forms an important part of Lostock Hall Academy’s wider Personal Development curriculum. RSHE and Health Education are statutory components of secondary education and play a vital role in supporting young people as they grow into healthy, respectful and responsible adults.
Through age-appropriate lessons, students develop the knowledge and understanding needed to build positive relationships, make safe and informed decisions, maintain good physical and mental wellbeing, and navigate the opportunities and challenges of modern life. Our curriculum is underpinned by the values of respect, inclusion and equality, ensuring that all students feel represented, supported and empowered to succeed.
Schools are required to consult with parents and carers when developing and reviewing their RSHE policy. This consultation helps inform decisions about when and how curriculum content is delivered. A copy of our RSHE policy, along with information about the topics covered in each year group, can be found using the links below.
All RSHE content is carefully planned to be age appropriate and meets the statutory requirements set out by the Department for Education.
Parents and carers have the right to request that their child be withdrawn from specific aspects of sex education delivered as part of RSHE. However, students cannot be withdrawn from Relationship Education or Health Education. We strongly believe that this learning is essential in helping all young people develop healthy, respectful relationships and make informed choices throughout their lives.
If you have any questions or would like further information about RSHE, please contact Mr Doyle at j.doyle@lostockhallacademy.org.