Opportunity + Success = Pride Confidence
Life Skills & Religious Studies Intent
Our curriculum is influenced by the ethos, learning and relationships throughout the Academy. Our Make A Difference Campaign is also supported by the Life Skills curriculum and our lessons on Diversity and Equality. Our spiral curriculum gives us the ability to be flexible, at times bespoke and to be innovative and current in the topics we teach. We can be reactive to events within school and society.
The curriculum is designed to gradually introduce students to more challenging and thought-provoking content. We start with personal issues such as puberty, self-care and emotional literacy, before expanding into broader societal topics like democracy, equality, and global issues. This progression ensures students are confident in their foundational skills before tackling more abstract and complex ideas. We place topics related to physical and emotional wellbeing, safety, and relationships early in the curriculum, as these are critical to students' immediate lives. By addressing these areas first, we provide students with essential tools to navigate challenges and ensure they feel safe and supported as they explore more complex topics later on.
By sequencing our curriculum in this way, we ensure that learning is cumulative, responsive to student needs, and relevant to the challenges they will face both inside and outside of school. The KS3 curriculum delves deeper into more complex and sensitive topics, such as mental health, consent and abuse. Critical thinking becomes a key part of learning. Students are encouraged to analyse situations, reflect on the consequences of their actions and engage in discussions about moral dilemmas. Students also begin exploring their own personal identity, including their values, beliefs, and aspirations. There’s a greater emphasis on independence, self-esteem, and managing the transition through adolescence. Topics like puberty, self-care, and emotional regulation are covered in more depth, helping students navigate the changes they are experiencing. There is a stronger focus on healthy and unhealthy relationships, including consent, managing romantic relationships, and understanding different types of relationships in society. Topics like consent, peer influence, and online safety become more relevant as students gain independence in their social interactions. At KS4, the emphasis shifts towards preparing students for life beyond school. The curriculum focuses more on future planning, including careers, financial literacy, and making informed decisions about post-16 education and employment. Students also explore practical skills needed for adulthood, such as managing finances, understanding employment rights, and navigating the transition to independence.
Students are expected to make more independent and informed decisions, particularly around higher-risk behaviors such as sexual health, drug and alcohol use, and mental health challenges. The curriculum supports students in managing the pressures of exams, relationships, and planning for their futures, equipping them with practical skills for adult life.
Life Skills Assessment Approach Religious Studies Assessment Approach