PSHE

The two major elements of the course are as follows:

Careers Education

Students study a variety of possible occupations and relate their own abilities to possible careers.  Visits to local firms and colleges, together with practical advice on such matters as writing letters of application for jobs and preparing for interviews, are key elements within the course.  This is timetabled for groups in Years 10 and 11 and also organised on an individual basis in Year 11. 

We make arrangements for all students to have a two-week period of work experience in Year 10 and this is assessed as part of Compact.  Students working closely with the Careers Service devise an individual career Action Plan, which is completed at the end of Year 11.  This element of the course will also involve the use and development of I.T. skills.

At the start of the Easter term in Year 11 we run a comprehensive series of mock interviews with local employers.  Students use these sessions to test and to develop their communication skills and learn how best to present their own talents and aptitudes.  It also gives them a pretty good idea of the expectations of the world of work.

Health Education

The aim of this element of the course is to develop informed and responsible decision-making over a wide area of personal behaviour and relationships.  Topics include sexual development and behaviour, personal relationships, parenthood, drugs education and safety.  Wherever possible we involve representatives from outside agencies such as the Local Health Authority.