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Outcomes

PSHE

Qualitative outcomes from schools in Cornwall:

  • In response to a pupil questionnaire in July 2008, the Citizenship and Personal Development scheme of learning was revised. Students now report that the curriculum is much more relevant to their current needs and future potential lifestyle choices. (Secondary school.)
  • Further to the introduction of SEAL in September 2007 students have increased confidence to express their concerns, knowing that they do so in a supportive environment.
  • After a change in policy in January 2008 regarding the engagement of external agencies in the delivery of many sensitive issues, students feel that their knowledge and understanding have increased; they also report that they now feel more confident and willing to access these services, as required, than previously. (Secondary school.)
  • Since the introduction, in September 2007, of massage after lunch breaks, staff report that the children are much calmer and more focussed at the start of afternoon lessons.
  • Since the introduction of a nominated pastoral carer in April 2008, children report that they know whom to approach.
  • Since the introduction of a PSHE file in each classroom in January 2008, staff report that children feel more able to express their concerns.
  • Since the introduction of regular school council meetings in 2007, pupils report that they know their elected council representatives and are confident that their issues are listened to and acted upon.
  • Pupils believe that school council members are elected fairly and are confident that their issues, ideas and views are listened to and acted upon. School council members represent their classes well.
  • We carried out a PSHE and Citizenship audit in September 2007 which identified gaps. As a result, we developed a new framework for PSHE and SEAL using the ECM framework and introduced timetabled sessions for PSHE, SRE and drugs education. We purchased new teaching resources and carefully planned our use of outside agencies. Teachers now report feeling much more confident in teaching the various topic areas.
  • Our Ofsted report of 2007 stated that our school council, which includes pupils of all ages, gives opportunities to influence decisions and is a good introduction to citizenship.
  • Our lead PSHE teacher gained the Certification of the Teaching of PSHE, enabling us to totally overhaul our provision for the subject, in accordance with the relevant guidance. Ofsted has since noted that the 'PSHE and vocational curriculum prepare pupils very well for leaving school'. (Secondary school)
  • Since we established a link with the Stop Smoking Service (which includes smoking cessation training for staff) we have enhanced our delivery of tobacco education. This has led students to not only show interest in stopping smoking but also to take steps to reduce or give up their smoking routines. (Secondary school)
  • Since the introduction of SEAL throughout the school in September 2006, the PSHE governor reports that an analysis of children's questionnaires shows that children's confidence in dealing with social and emotional aspects increases as they progress through the school.
  • We have been publishing regular reminders about sun safety and the use of sun cream in the summer editions of our newsletter. Children now show a greater awareness of the risks and more now bring hats and lotions into school for use at playtimes.
  • Drugs education is included within both the science and the PSHE curriculum and is progressively incorporated into lifeskills visits for older juniors. This has enabled the children to talk and write more freely about the possible impact of drugs within their lives. Responses to the 2008 Y6 leavers' survey show that all children are aware of substances harmful to both themselves and others. We are working to raise the number who know "it's OK to say no" from 70% to 100%.
  • As a result of our work in partnership within our local cluster of five schools and within the wider SKILL network of twenty-three schools the government recognises that we offer the full core offer for extended services. Parents now frequently comment that their children's participation in extra-curricular activities both on and off site is continually building their confidence and self-esteem.
  • The school council designed questionnaires to canvass children's opinions and we now have "wow" assemblies to present certificates and celebrate achievements. Responses to questionnaires show that children feel more involved in school life, feel they can take a positive role at school and can say how they are involved. Our July 2008 Ofsted report said "One of the strengths of the teaching at the school is the positive and friendly way in which pupils, including those with emotional, behavioural and social difficulties, are managed."
  • Our 2006 Ofsted report said "Personal development is good. Pupils are really positive about 'their school' and parents appreciate the school's caring environment which enables pupils to feel safe, wanted and well looked after. As a result, pupils enjoy learning, behave well and respect others. They display responsible attitudes and have a good sense of community spirit."
  • Since the introduction of SEAL and regular Circle Time staff report that the children are already showing more awareness and tolerance of each other, especially during unstructured time. As a result, when planning a block of work we use children's ideas through discussion at the beginning and in evaluation.