PSHE & RSE

Our Vision for PSHE 

At The Growth Learning Collective, our vision is to help every child grow into a happy, healthy, confident and responsible individual. We believe PSHE plays a vital role in preparing children for life beyond school. 

Our PSHE curriculum helps children to: 

• Understand themselves and others 
• Manage emotions and relationships positively 
• Stay safe and make informed, responsible choices 
• Build confidence, resilience and independence 

We follow the Islington You, Me, PSHE scheme and embed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) throughout our teaching. This helps children learn about their rights and responsibilities and understand how to be respectful, active citizens in their community and the wider world.  

Each term, classes take part in a debate inspired by a UNCRC right, giving pupils the opportunity to explore global issues, practise respectful discussion, and develop empathy and confidence in expressing their opinions. 

Children are also taught age-appropriate social skills throughout the year, helping them to build positive relationships and communicate effectively as they grow. 

Across our schools, we also use the Zones of Regulation framework to help children identify, understand and manage their emotions effectively. 

Our aim is for every child to leave primary school as an emotionally aware, respectful and well-rounded individual who believes they can achieve anything, regardless of their background. 

 

What Our PSHE Lessons Look Like 

PSHE is taught in every year group through engaging and interactive lessons that help children explore real-life topics. Lessons are structured around seven key strands: 

1. Mental health and emotional wellbeing 

2. Keeping safe and managing risk 

3. Physical health and wellbeing 

4. Drug, alcohol and tobacco education 

5. Identity, society and equality 

6. Careers, financial capability and economic wellbeing 

7. Relationships, Sex and Health Education (taught in Years 2, 4 and 6) 

Each half term, children explore one topic through three 45-minute lessons. Learning is interactive and includes debates, role-play, discussions and scenario-based activities that encourage children to think deeply and share their ideas.  A strong focus on oracy runs through all PSHE teaching. Children are encouraged to express themselves clearly, listen respectfully to others and explore different viewpoints. 

 

PSHE in Early Years 

PSHE is not a separate lesson in EYFS but is woven throughout our play-based curriculum, fully aligned with the statutory EYFS framework and Islington’s “You, Me, PSHE” scheme. 

It is delivered through the three prime areas: 

• Personal, Social & Emotional Development (PSED) – building confidence, friendships, sharing and managing feelings. 
• Communication & Language (CL) – naming emotions, listening and resolving conflicts through talking. 
• Physical Development (PD) – learning healthy choices and self-care (e.g. choosing snacks, pouring drinks, hygiene). 

Our free-flow indoor and outdoor provision ensures children naturally develop these vital life skills every day, preparing them for more structured PSHE from Year 1. 

 

PSHE Beyond the Curriculum 

At The Growth Learning Collective, PSHE goes far beyond classroom lessons. It shapes the culture of our schools, how we celebrate achievements, support one another and engage with the wider community. Pupils take part in assemblies, fundraising, and celebrations of festivals and global events, helping them understand their role in the world around them. 

Children develop confidence, leadership and a sense of responsibility through roles such as School Council, Digital Leaders, Science Ambassadors, Eco Squad, Rights Champions and Play Leaders. These opportunities empower pupils to make a positive difference within the school and beyond. 

A rich programme of educational visits and community projects helps children apply their learning in real-world contexts and prepares them to play an active, thoughtful role in modern society.