The PSHE department works closely with the RE department to deliver PSHE during Years 7,8 and 9 and the Year 10 and 11 Respect curriculum. The aim of PSHE is to produce well-informed citizens, who are able to cope in a variety of situations, listen to others and tolerate people’s opinions.

Work experience
 

Work experience and placements give students the opportunity to practice some of the things they learn through PSHE. Year 10 students go on a two week period of work experience at the end of June each year. BEST (Business & Education Success Together) support the school in organising health & safety-checked work experience for up to 250 students each year.

Preparation for work experience begins with an Industry Day, involving students in mock interviews and briefings on health and safety, the need for punctuality and smart wear. School staff visit the students while they are on placement. Following the placements, there is a “debrief day” at school, when students look at their employer’s report, write up their own report, write a letter of thanks to the employer, and give oral presentations on what they have learned.

Careers support
 

A Careers Day is held each October, to which local colleges and careers organisations are invited. The Connexions Team interview all Year 11 students and take them through the applications process for colleges and sixth forms.

In Years 10 and 11, some students follow an NVQ course for one day a week, in hairdressing, catering, child care, motor vehicle, joinery and other skills subjects arranged with a local college. Students are interviewed before being offered a place on the alternative curriculum, and good attendance, behaviour and achievement is vital.