When academic subjects often take centre stage, it’s easy to overlook the profound importance of PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic education). But this often-undervalued subject holds the key to unlocking the full potential of our pupils, empowering them to become well-rounded individuals who are prepared for life beyond the classroom.

As a PSHE Leader, you champion the transformative power of this subject, recognising its ability to shape the lives of young learners. You understand that PSHE is not just about ticking off boxes in a curriculum, it’s about equipping pupils with the essential skills, knowledge and attitudes they need to navigate the complexities of life with confidence and resilience.

For PSHE class teachers, the day-to-day delivery of these valuable lessons brings immense satisfaction. You witness first-hand the impact of PSHE on pupils’ personal growth, social interactions and overall wellbeing. You see them blossoming into empathetic, responsible and informed individuals, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Aligning with the British National Curriculum

Although the National Curriculum does not give a programme of study for PSHE, it still mandates that the subject feature in each school, recognising its crucial role in fostering well-rounded individuals. Here’s why PSHE is an extremely important subject to learn:

• Personal Development: PSHE nurtures self-awareness, self-esteem and emotional intelligence, empowering pupils to manage their emotions, build positive relationships and make informed decisions.

• Social Development: PSHE promotes empathy, respect for diversity and effective communication skills, enabling pupils to collaborate effectively, resolve conflicts peacefully and contribute positively to their communities.

• Health Education: PSHE installs knowledge about physical, mental and emotional health, encouraging pupils to make healthy choices, maintain wellbeing and seek support when needed.

• Economic Education: this oft-forgotten aspect of PSHE provides financial literacy and an understanding of the world of work. It develops pupils’ entrepreneurship skills and prepares them for financial independence, informed economic participation and future career paths.

Empowering PSHE Leaders and Teachers

As Subject Leaders, you play a pivotal role in driving the success of PSHE within your school. You can support PSHE class teachers by:

• Providing ongoing professional development opportunities. Equip teachers with the latest PSHE pedagogy, resources and teaching strategies to enhance their effectiveness in the classroom.

• Fostering a collaborative learning environment. Encourage teachers to share experiences, best practices and innovative ideas to improve PSHE teaching and learning across the school.

• Celebrating PSHE achievements. Recognise and reward the dedication and success of PSHE teachers, boosting morale and motivating them to continue their excellent work.

Recommended PSHE Courses from TT Education

TT Education, the School Improvement Company, offers a comprehensive range of PSHE courses designed to support Subject Leaders and PSHE class teachers. Our courses are aligned with all relevant national guidance documents, and provide valuable insights into effective PSHE teaching practices.

Our PSHE on-demand course recommendations for you:

• Raising Attainment in PSHE
• PSHE Leader Curriculum Support
• Teacher Support Programme for PSHE
• Using Drama to Teach PSHE in Primary School

With our on-demand courses, you’ll gain 30-day access to watch at your convenience to fit around your business schedule. Pause, rewind, repeat and enjoy our on-demand CPD courses from just £75+VAT for a limited time only.

PSHE: Helps to Navigate the Complexities of Life

PSHE is an indispensable subject that empowers pupils to become well-rounded individuals, prepared to navigate the complexities of life with confidence and resilience. By providing comprehensive PSHE education, we are investing in the future of our pupils, creating a generation of individuals who are not only academically successful but also socially responsible, emotionally intelligent and prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.