PSHE at Gade Valley Primary School
How would children benefit if they could be aware of their thoughts and feelings as they happen?
PSHE is taught using the Jigsaw approach. Children are encouraged to become aware of their thoughts and feelings through weekly lessons.
Through proactive PSHE teaching and learning, mindfulness is developed through the ‘Calm Me’ time in each lesson. This consists of breathing techniques, awareness exercises and enjoyable activities; where children can begin to understand their thoughts, feelings and learn techniques to support the regulation of their emotions and build emotional resilience, with no judgement.
Jigsaw brings together PSHE education, emotional literacy, social skills and spiritual development. Teaching strategies are varied, mindful of learning styles and need for differentiation. This approach is designed as a whole school approach, with all year groups working on the same theme at the same time. This enables each Puzzle to start with an introductory assembly, generating a whole school focus for adults and children alike. An example of this was in the Summer Term, where each class had to design a boat and sail it on the river. Children were able to demonstrate their social skills and learnt the skills necessary to work as a team. Furthermore, in the autumn term children are encouraged to learn about other children's home environments and provide a box filled with small gifts to spread happiness to families in our country but also around the world.
As a school, Sex and Relationships Education (SRE) is taught through the ‘Changing Me’ Puzzle which provides teaching and learning intentions for each year group. Effective SRE can make a significant contribution to the development of the personal skills needed by children if they are to establish and maintain relationships. In addition, it provides opportunities for children to understand the difference between safe and abusive relationships and equips them with the skills to get help if they need it.
The Drug and Alcohol Education programme at our school reflects the school ethos and demonstrates and encourages the following values. For example: