Our approach
Thematic, pedagogical and vocabulary-based links are made between all aspects of the character curriculum. These links guide pupils in becoming increasingly confident in engaging with the Big Questions and in the topics being addressed:
- Thematic links are used to support pupils in rehearsing and applying their knowledge.
- Vocabulary links guide pupils in being ever more precise in articulating their knowledge and understanding.
- Pedagogical links allow pupils to practise and prepare for making informed choices: pupils will often complete structured reflection and guided reading of non-fiction texts, and they will discuss, debate and apply their learning to real-life scenarios.
- Key knowledge is revisited over time and built upon to ensure meaningful and age-appropriate learning. This approach to sequencing the character curriculum, alongside the links outlined above, supports pupils to know and remember more over time and to flourish as confident learners.
Curriculum Overview
Year 7
| Autumn 1 | Autumn 2 |
|---|---|
| What's the difference between a job and a career? | What changes happen to our bodies when we grow up? |
| Spring 1 | Spring 2 |
|---|---|
| What types of relationships exist? | What are healthy and unhealthy online behaviours? |
| Summer 1 | Summer 2 |
|---|---|
| What are the laws in relation to online behaviour and how should I respond if something goes wrong? | What is the role of local community groups and national organisations in bringing about positive change in society? |
Year 8
| Autumn 1 | Autumn 2 |
|---|---|
| What are the skills and attributes I need to be successful in a career of my choice? | What impact do food choices, exercise and drugs have on people's lives? |
| Spring 1 | Spring 2 |
|---|---|
| What are the qualities and characteristics of healthy relationships? | How can I look after my personal finances? |
| Summer 1 | Summer 2 |
|---|---|
| What are the dangers involved in my financial security? | What are British Values and how do they relate to our academy values? |
Year 9
| Autumn 1 | Autumn 2 |
|---|---|
| What are the advantages and disadvantages of applying for an apprenticeship? | What strategies can be used to promote mental health and where can support be accessed? |
| Spring 1 | Spring 2 |
|---|---|
| What is the role of sexual health in maintaining healthy relationships? | What are the positive and negative impacts of social media on the lives of young people? |
| Summer 1 | Summer 2 |
|---|---|
| How can I keep my online data safe and secure? | What are the key features of democracy in the UK? |
Year 10
| Autumn 1 | Autumn 2 |
|---|---|
| How is the labour marking changing and where do I go to find up to date information? How can I evaluate my post 16 options? |
What are the warning signs of stress, anxiety and depression? Where can support be accessed for mental health and what steps can be taken to improve it? |
| Spring 1 | Spring 2 |
|---|---|
| How can support be accessed if relationships become unhealthy? How can support be accessed when relationships change, including separation, divorce and bereavement? |
What is meant by digital citizenship? |
| Summer 1 | Summer 2 |
|---|---|
| What financial services can be accessed as a young person and as an adult? | What are our rights and responsibilities to our selves and wider society? |
All Year 10 subjects Next Year 10 Subject - Design Technology
Year 11
| Autumn 1 | Autumn 2 |
|---|---|
| How can I prepare myself effectively for my future, including online applications, CVs and applying to sixth form/college? | How can I manage my wellbeing during exams and revision? What is the role of health screening and self examination in promoting good physical health? |
| Spring 1 | Spring 2 |
|---|---|
| What do young people need to know about pregnancy? What does the law say about unhealthy relationships? |
How can I revise effectively for my exams? |
| Summer 1 | Summer 2 |
|---|---|
All Year 11 subjects Next Year 11 Subject - Design Technology
Year 12
| Autumn 1 | Autumn 2 |
|---|---|
| What are the options available to me after my sixth form studies? | How can I stay physically and mentally healthy as I transition into adulthood? |
| Spring 1 | Spring 2 |
|---|---|
| What types of relationship will I need to develop and maintain as I transition into adulthood? | How can I identify when crime or wrong doing has taken place and where can I get support? |
| Summer 1 | Summer 2 |
|---|---|
| What is the role of an active citizen as I transition into adulthood? | How can I evaluate the options available to me after sixth form and make well informed choices? |
Year 13
| Autumn 1 | Autumn 2 |
|---|---|
| How can I finalise a personal statement that best represents me? | How can I access health related services in new locations? |
| Spring 1 | Spring 2 |
|---|---|
| What crimes can take place in relationships and how can I seek support? | How can I manage my finances as I transition into adulthood? |
| Summer 1 | Summer 2 |
|---|---|