Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE)
Protected Characteristics
It is important that all children gain an understanding of the world they are growing up in, and learn how to live alongside, and show respect for, a diverse range of people.
The Equality Act 2010, identifies the ‘protected characteristics’ as:
• age
• disability
• gender reassignment
• pregnancy and maternity
• race
• religion or belief
• sex
• sexual orientation
At Thornton Primary School, we pride ourselves on having a well-considered approach to the teaching of the protected characteristics.
The plan below shows how the protected characteristics are embedded into our curriculum. It is planned and delivered so that pupils develop age appropriate knowledge and understanding during their time at our school.
PSHE at Our School
At our school, Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education is an essential part of the curriculum, supporting children’s personal development and wellbeing. We use the highly regarded Cambridgeshire Primary Personal Development Programme, a comprehensive and progressive scheme designed to meet the needs of all pupils from Reception to Year 6. This programme is built around key strands such as Myself and My Relationships, Healthy and Safer Lifestyles, Citizenship, and Economic Wellbeing, helping children to explore topics such as managing emotions, making safe and healthy choices, respecting others and understanding the world around them.
The curriculum is carefully planned to ensure that each year group builds on previous learning, with opportunities for discussion, reflection and practical activities. Enrichment units address important current issues like body image, online safety and anti-bullying, ensuring pupils are equipped to navigate modern challenges with confidence and resilience.
Our PSHE curriculum is more than just classroom lessons—it supports a whole-school approach to wellbeing and personal development. We also use specialist toolkits for areas such as Relationships and Sex Education (RSE), drug education and healthy eating, helping us to work in partnership with families and the wider community. Through PSHE, we aim to nurture kind, respectful and responsible young people who are prepared for the opportunities and challenges of today’s world.
PSHE Curriculum Overview
Speak Out. Stay Safe - NSPCC Assembly
This term, children across school took part in the Speak Out. Stay Safe assembly from NSPCC. There were lots of wonderful suggestions from the children about how to stay safe. Great work!
Thornton Primary School Participation Certificate 2024
