Continuous professional development
The Ofsted report Sex and relationships (2002) states that SRE should be taught by teachers who have the necessary knowledge and teaching expertise and who want to participate in this demanding aspect of provision. The most significant weaknesses observed were:
- unclear expectations about what pupils should learn, especially at Key Stages 1 and 2;
- an inability to establish a classroom climate;
- too few opportunities for reflection and
- lack of assessment.
Training in teaching and learning in PSHE and SRE is a key issue in developing the confidence of teachers and in raising the quality of the taught curriculum. At secondary level, schools should consider the advantages of delivering SRE and other aspects of PSHE through a specialist team. In all schools PSHE teachers should have time to reassess their training needs and feed into the Department or School Development plan.
Continuing professional development (CPD) is also about talking to colleagues, taking opportunities to reflect on one’s own attitudes about sexual health and relationships, and updating and considering new resources.
The national CPD programme for PSHE
The national CPD programme provides teachers with the opportunity to gain recognition and accreditation of their experience in teaching personal, social and health education (PSHE) and to develop their knowledge, understanding and teaching and learning skills in the delivery of PSHE in schools and other settings.
In Cornwall, David Hampshire, County Adviser for RE and PSHE/C, is the lead for PSHE accreditation and he can provide more information about the programme and how to sign up. David also provides PSHE and SRE training courses throughout the school year.
