Personal Development - Archway Learning Trust

Transition

Overview

This unit is designed to help students navigate the transition to secondary school. It covers topics such as personal identity, the changes experienced in year 7, the importance of different relationships, and student leadership. Additionally, it encourages self-reflection on achievements and aspirations. The unit aims to provide students with the necessary tools and support to manage this transition effectively.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of personal identity and self-awareness.
Familiarity with different types of relationships (e.g., family, friends, teachers).
Awareness of the primary to secondary school transition.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

The concept of identity and its various features.
The differences between primary and secondary school and how to adapt to these changes.
The significance of having diverse relationships and the benefits they bring.
Introduction to student leadership and its importance.
Strategies for self-reflection on personal skills, qualities, and achievements.
Understanding and setting personal aspirations and goals.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Ability to articulate and explore personal identity.
Reflection and discussion skills regarding personal and academic changes.
Identifying and managing different types of relationships.
Understanding and participating in student leadership roles.
Self-assessment of personal growth and setting future goals.
Developing perseverance, patience, and passion to achieve aspirations.

Communities

Overview

This unit focuses on understanding and appreciating the diversity within communities. It covers topics such as the concept of community, valuing each other, what makes a successful community, conflict resolution, and challenging prejudice and discrimination. The unit aims to promote respect, equality, and effective communication within the community.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of community and the roles within it.
Awareness of diversity and the importance of respecting differences.
Fundamental communication skills.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

The definition and significance of community.
How to value similarities and differences among individuals.
Key qualities that contribute to a successful community.
Strategies for resolving conflicts within a community.
The concepts of prejudice and discrimination, and ways to challenge them.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Ability to appreciate and respect the diversity within communities.
Creating and presenting community profiles.
Identifying and implementing rules for successful community life.
Conflict resolution and mediation.
Critical thinking regarding prejudice and discrimination.
Effective communication and respectful debate.

Risk and Safety

Overview

This unit covers various aspects of risk-taking, risk management, peer pressure, bullying, and online safety. Through discussions, scenarios, videos, and practical activities, students will understand the difference between beneficial and harmful risks, recognize and manage risky situations, develop assertiveness to deal with peer pressure, understand and prevent bullying, and learn strategies to stay safe online. The lessons aim to provide students with the knowledge and skills to navigate risks in different contexts effectively.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of the concept of risk and safety.
Familiarity with different forms of bullying.
Awareness of the importance of communication skills.
General knowledge of social media and the internet.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Familiarity with different forms of bullying.
General knowledge of social media and the internet.
Understanding the difference between beneficial and harmful risk-taking.
Identifying risks and potential harms in various scenarios.
Understanding peer pressure and its impact.
Learning strategies to say ""no"" effectively.
Learning strategies to prevent and stop bullying.
Recognising the risks of using the internet and social media.
Understanding cyberbullying and how to handle it.
Knowing actions to take and where to get help in case of online risks.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Critical thinking about different types of risks.
Analyzing and discussing risk scenarios.
Problem-solving to create safe solutions in risky scenarios.
Developing confidence in handling peer pressure.
Identifying and understanding various forms of bullying.
Developing strategies to intervene and support victims as an upstander.
Online safety awareness.
Recognizing and handling cyberbullying and cyber predators.
Implementing safety measures and knowing where to seek help online.

Healthy Lifestyles

Overview

This unit focuses on understanding and maintaining health across various domains including nutrition, physical activity, daily routines, and recognizing when health issues arise. Students will learn through structured lessons, discussions, videos, and practical activities aimed at promoting comprehensive health knowledge and skills.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of what it means to be healthy.
Awareness of general healthy practices such as hygiene and balanced diet.
Familiarity with everyday health choices and routines.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Broad concept of health encompassing physical, mental, and social aspects.
Multiple areas contributing to whole-body wellness beyond just exercise and diet.
The five main food groups and their role in a balanced diet.
Using the traffic light system and understanding good (unsaturated) vs. bad (saturated) fats.
Various benefits of regular physical activity, including social and skill development.
Recommended amount of physical activity for children and creating personal activity timetables.
Importance of maintaining a healthy daily routine including adequate sleep.
Benefits of regular sleep and actions affecting sleep quality.
Understanding rights to health and treatment.
Key information and behaviors when calling emergency services.
Reflecting on personal health achievements and setting future health goals.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Critical Thinking: Evaluating different aspects of health and making informed decisions.
Communication: Discussing health topics, sharing ideas, and presenting information.
Problem-solving: Applying knowledge to real-life health scenarios and finding solutions.
Self-reflection: Assessing personal health practices and setting achievable goals.
Decision-making: Making choices about nutrition, physical activity, and daily routines based on learned knowledge.
Health Literacy: Understanding health-related information, procedures, and rights.

Growing Up

Overview

This unit covers various aspects of growing up, including physical, emotional, and social changes experienced during puberty. It also addresses the importance of personal hygiene, understanding different types of relationships, friendship skills, and the concept of consent. Each week is designed to build on the previous one, helping students to gain confidence and knowledge about these critical topics.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of human anatomy and bodily functions.
Awareness of personal hygiene practices.
Some experience or knowledge of different types of relationships (family, friends, etc.).

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

The physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty.
How to cope with emotional changes and build confidence.
The importance of personal hygiene and how to maintain it.
Different types of relationships and what makes them healthy or unhealthy.
The concept of consent and how to recognize and respect it.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Ability to describe and cope with changes during puberty.
Strategies to manage emotions and social changes.
Understanding and maintaining personal hygiene.
Identifying qualities of healthy relationships and practicing friendship skills.
Recognising and respecting consent in various situations.

Planning for the Future

Overview

This unit, "Planning for the Future," focuses on helping students understand and plan their future aspirations. It involves activities that aid in transition, such as writing letters, understanding personal strengths, facing challenges, and self-assessment. Each week is designed to guide students through self-discovery and preparation for future goals.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic writing skills, including proper spelling and grammar.
Understanding of personal strengths and weaknesses.
Familiarity with the concept of aspirations and goals.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

How to write structured and meaningful letters to aid younger students.
Understanding and identifying personal aspirations and the qualities needed to achieve them.
Recognizing personal strengths and how they contribute to achieving goals.
Problem-solving techniques and strategies to overcome challenges.
Self-assessment methods to evaluate progress and areas for improvement.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Letter writing with a focus on structure, spelling, and grammar.
Reflecting on and articulating personal aspirations.
Identifying and leveraging personal strengths.
Problem-solving and facing challenges with a growth mindset.
Conducting self-assessments to celebrate accomplishments and set future goals.

Identity

Overview

This unit focuses on understanding concepts related to gender identity, sexual orientation, prejudice, stereotypes, and diversity. You will explore how these concepts impact individuals and society.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of human rights, social interactions, and respect for diversity.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Different types of gender identities and expressions.
The impact of stereotypes and prejudices on individuals and society.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Ability to critically analyse stereotypes and prejudices.
Improved understanding of human diversity and respect for different identities.
Communication skills in discussing sensitive topics.

Communities

Overview

This unit explores the themes of equality, discrimination, and social justice. It aims to educate students about different forms of prejudice and discrimination, such as racism, sexism, and homophobia, and how they manifest in society. The unit also addresses the importance of understanding and respecting diversity, as well as promoting equality through legal frameworks like the Equality Act.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Awareness of different social and cultural backgrounds.
General knowledge of societal norms and values.
Previous learning about bullying and different forms of negative behaviour.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

The definitions and implications of key terms like stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination.
The legal protections provided by the Equality Act 2010 and the Same-Sex Marriage Act.
The history and impact of movements such as Black Lives Matter (BLM).
The characteristics that are protected under equality laws.
How to recognise and respond to different forms of discrimination, including direct and indirect discrimination.
The concept of hate crimes and their motivations based on personal characteristics.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Critical thinking and reflection on personal biases and societal issues.
Ability to identify and challenge discriminatory behaviour in various contexts.
Advocacy skills to promote diversity and equality.
Effective communication skills for discussing sensitive topics.
Problem-solving skills for creating inclusive and equitable environments.

Risk and Safety

Overview

This unit on "Online and Media" aims to equip Year 8 students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital world responsibly and safely. It covers topics such as online behavior expectations, the impact of the internet on wellbeing, the balance of online and offline life, the targeting and manipulation of online information, and identifying harmful online behaviour.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of how to use the internet and social media.
Awareness of personal safety and privacy online.
Fundamental knowledge of the potential risks and responsibilities associated with online interactions.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

The rights and responsibilities associated with online behaviour.
Risks and dangers of sharing material online.
How online activities can impact your mental wellbeing.
The effect of curated online images on self-perception.
The real-life consequences of online actions, including gambling and cyberbullying.
How targeted online information can manipulate your opinions.
The identification and avoidance of fake news.
Understanding the laws and impact of viewing harmful content.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Identifying and mitigating risky online behaviour.
Reflecting on and auditing your online behavior for wellbeing.
Balancing online and offline life.
Critical thinking about the information you encounter online.
Recognising and responding to cyberbullying and other harmful online interactions.
Seeking support for online issues and understanding where to go for help without judgment.

Healthy Lifestyles

Overview

The "Healthy Lifestyles" unit focuses on understanding and managing mental and physical health. It covers the importance of mental wellbeing, recognising and addressing mental health issues, and the impact of societal standards on body image. This unit aims to help students develop a balanced approach to maintaining overall health and wellbeing.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic Understanding of Health Concepts: Familiarity with the concepts of physical and mental health, including basic health practices and the significance of a balanced lifestyle.
Awareness of Personal Wellbeing: Initial self-assessment of current mental and physical wellbeing, including factors that influence these states.
Knowledge of Social Influences: Understanding how societal norms and peer influences can impact personal views on health and body image.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Mental Health Management: Strategies to manage mental health, including the importance of seeking support when necessary and understanding that mental health conditions can vary in severity.
Five Ways to Wellbeing: A model developed by the New Economics Foundation, including connecting with others, being active, taking notice, continuing to learn, and giving to others.
Body Image: Understanding body image issues, recognising body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), and how societal standards influence personal perceptions of body image.
Impact of Media: Insight into how media representations can affect body image and mental health.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Self-Assessment and Reflection: Ability to evaluate personal wellbeing, recognise early signs of mental health concerns, and reflect on personal health practices.
Mental Health Strategies: Developing practical strategies to improve mental health, such as creating a wellbeing toolkit based on the Five Ways to Wellbeing.
Critical Thinking: Analyzing and understanding the impact of societal and media influences on body image and mental health.
Supportive Communication: Learning how to support friends and peers who may be struggling with mental health issues, and how to seek help from trusted adults or professionals.

Growing Up

Overview

This unit is designed to equip students with practical knowledge and skills to navigate relationships, recognise harmful behaviors, and promote respect and equality. Each session builds on the previous one, providing a comprehensive understanding of interpersonal dynamics and societal issues related to relationships.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of relationships, respect, and communication skills.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Identification of healthy vs unhealthy relationship behaviours, recognising stereotypes' impact on relationships, understanding consent and boundaries, and knowledge about sexual harassment and its consequences.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Assertiveness: Communicate needs, desires, and concerns effectively and respectfully.
Analytical Thinking: Evaluate behaviours and situations to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy dynamics.
Problem-Solving: Develop strategies to address conflicts and challenges in relationships.
Decision-Making: Make informed decisions about boundaries, consent, and when to seek help or support.
Empathetic Listening: Understand others' emotions and perspectives without judgment.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect and appreciate diversity in backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences.
Compassion: Show care and concern for others' well-being, especially in challenging situations.
Self-Reflection: Assess personal attitudes, behaviors, and biases that may impact relationships.
Awareness of Boundaries: Recognise personal boundaries and respect others' boundaries.
Understanding of Rights and Responsibilities: Know individual rights in relationships, consent, and respect.
Information Literacy: Evaluate and apply accurate information about healthy relationships, stereotypes, and harassment.
Negotiation Skills: Collaboratively resolve conflicts and disagreements in relationships.
Mediation: Facilitate discussions to promote understanding and compromise.
Conflict Management: Manage conflict constructively while maintaining respect and dignity.
Ethical Decision-Making: Make decisions based on fairness, justice, and respect for human rights.

Planning for the Future

Overview

This unit focuses on developing students' understanding of personal branding, goal setting using SMART targets, and effective teamwork. Students will explore various aspects of self-awareness, personal development, and interpersonal skills. The unit includes activities to assess confidence in these areas and tasks designed to enhance these skills.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of personal goals and teamwork.
Previous experience with setting and achieving goals.
Familiarity with self-assessment and reflection on personal skills and qualities.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Personal Branding: Understanding what 'My Personal Brand' means.
SMART Targets: Identifying and using SMART targets to set and achieve goals.
Uni-Frog Navigation: Understanding how to navigate and utilize Uni-Frog.
Goal Setting: Making attainable goals and understanding the importance of personal goals versus goals set by others.
Self-Assessment: Evaluating personal skills and qualities effectively.
Team Roles and Teamwork: Recognizing the roles you play in life (e.g., student, sibling) and understanding the importance of teamwork.
Listening Skills: Identifying key facts and ideas shared by others and understanding what makes a good listener.
Job Ad Design: Creating job adverts focusing on the skills needed for teamwork and how these skills can be demonstrated.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Self-Assessment: Evaluating your own skills and qualities.
Goal Setting: Setting SMART targets and making attainable goals.
Communication Skills: Improving listening skills and effectively communicating ideas.
Teamwork: Working cooperatively with others, identifying factors that affect team success, and understanding the difference between skills and attitudes.
Problem Solving: Developing strategies to overcome setbacks and finding solutions to challenges.
Creativity and Independence: Using imagination for new ideas and working independently to achieve goals.
Reading and Writing: Enhancing reading comprehension and writing skills through various activities and assessments.
Numeracy: Working with numbers successfully.

Identity

Overview

This unit encourages students to reflect on their understanding and confidence in key areas related to personal development, family roles, faith, self-care, goal setting, household considerations, and personal values. Through various activities and self-assessments, students will explore these concepts and their significance in everyday life.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Family Dynamics: Explore what makes a group of people a family, the influence of family on a young person, and different living arrangements within families.
Faith and Trust: Understand the concept of faith, make a list of trusted individuals, and learn the importance of believing in and trusting people.
Values and Priorities: Identify and rank personal and societal values, such as expressing opinions, enjoying life, human rights, safety, rules, beliefs, respect, trust, and health services.
Goal Setting and Achievement Review: Learn the importance of reviewing achievements and setting goals.
Personal and Societal Values: Explore what values mean, express how they feel about different values, and understand the reasons behind these feelings.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Roles and responsibilities of a family unit.
Concept and explanation of faith.
Effective self-care and care for others.
Importance of evaluating progress and goals.
Consideration of others in their household.
Understanding their own values.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Critical Self-Assessment: Ability to assess and reflect on personal knowledge and confidence regarding various topics.
Understanding and Explaining Concepts: Improved understanding of and ability to explain the roles and responsibilities within a family unit, the concept of faith, and the importance of personal values.
Self-Care and Care for Others: Enhanced skills in taking care of oneself and others effectively.
Evaluating Progress and Setting Goals: Ability to evaluate personal progress, set realistic goals, and understand their importance.
Interpersonal Consideration: Develop a deeper understanding of the importance of considering others within their household and community.
Values Clarification: Ability to identify, prioritize, and articulate personal and societal values, and understand the impact of these values on themselves and others.

Communities

Overview

This unit explores the topic of equality and discrimination, with a focus on understanding hate crimes and their impact on individuals and communities. It covers various forms of discrimination based on protected characteristics such as race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, class, age, and disability.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of what constitutes discrimination.
Awareness of different forms of prejudice and bias.
Knowledge of legal and social implications of discrimination and hate crimes.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Definition and examples of hate crimes targeting specific personal characteristics.
Understanding of direct and indirect forms of discrimination.
Insights into the impact of discrimination on individuals and society.
Familiarity with legal frameworks and reporting procedures related to hate crimes.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Ability to recognise and differentiate between direct and indirect discrimination.
Knowledge of how to report hate crimes and discrimination effectively.
Critical thinking skills to analyze societal issues related to equality and discrimination.
Communication skills to discuss and advocate for equality and respect for all individuals.

Risk and Safety

Overview

This unit focuses on understanding the impact of alcohol, safe alcohol consumption, the dangers of legal and illegal drugs, and making independent choices free of pressure. Through various sessions, students will learn about the effects of alcohol and drugs, legal implications, health risks, and how to make informed decisions.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of the legal age for alcohol consumption.
General knowledge about what alcohol and nicotine are.
Awareness of the concept of legal and illegal drugs.
Understanding of basic human physiology, especially regarding the brain and nervous system.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

The specific effects of alcohol on the brain and body
Legal drinking age and laws around alcohol consumption
Units of alcohol and their impact
Health risks associated with short-term and long-term alcohol use
Understanding of legal drugs (like nicotine and caffeine) and their dangers
Facts about illegal drugs and their effects
Legal consequences of drug possession and supply

Skills you will develop in this unit

Ability to identify and understand the effects of alcohol and drugs
Calculation of alcohol units and their impact on health
Critical thinking regarding legal and health information
Decision-making skills to avoid risky behaviors
Strategies for resisting peer pressure and making independent choices
Understanding and applying knowledge of laws related to alcohol and drug use.

Healthy Lifestyles

Overview

Physical health and mental health are essential aspects that pupils can actively work on and improve. Mental health, defined as our general sense of well-being, is just as important as physical health. Neglecting mental health can lead to mental illness, similar to how neglecting physical health can lead to physical illness.This unit equips students with the knowledge and strategies to reduce the risk of ill health, emphasising the importance of maintaining both physical and mental well-being.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of health and well-being.
Previous lessons on physical health, mental health, and their importance.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

How Science Has Changed the Way We Look After Our Body (Part 1): Pupils will explore how scientific advancements have influenced health practices, including the importance of organ donation.
How Science Has Changed the Way We Look After Our Body (Part 2): Pupils will delve into stem cell donation and the research behind it, learning about both its advantages and disadvantages.
Differences Between Healthy and Unhealthy Lifestyles: Pupils will understand the impact of lifestyle choices on health and well-being, recognizing the potential long-term problems caused by negative or unhealthy habits.
Looking After the Body: The importance of exercise for maintaining a healthy body and how to develop a healthy relationship with exercise.
Looking After the Mind: Evaluating and reflecting on factors that impact mental health, understanding emotional responses to different situations, and the importance of expressing feelings in a personal and polite manner.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Critical Thinking: Pupils will learn to critically evaluate their prior knowledge, assess the importance of organ donation, and reflect on their own viewpoints regarding stem cell research.
Decision Making: Pupils will develop the ability to make informed decisions about health practices and lifestyle choices.
Communication Skills: Through facilitated discussions and reflections, pupils will improve their ability to communicate effectively, express their feelings appropriately, and provide advice to others.
Reflective Skills: Pupils will practice reflecting on their own health routines and emotional responses, understanding the impact of different factors on their well-being.
Empathy and Respect: Pupils will learn to consider others' feelings and respond politely, understanding the importance of civility in personal interactions.

Growing Up

Overview

This unit focuses on understanding positive relationships and improving their health. It covers identifying signs of healthy versus unhealthy behaviors, learning about respect, addressing stereotypes, and recognizing negative relationship dynamics.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Understanding of basic interpersonal communication.
Awareness of personal boundaries and respect.
Knowledge of common relationship dynamics and behaviours.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Building blocks of positive relationships, such as respect, trust, and communication.
Recognizing signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships.
Strategies for addressing stereotypes and promoting equality.
Skills for handling conflicts and maintaining healthy boundaries.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Analysing behaviours to distinguish between positive and negative relationship traits.
Applying strategies to foster respectful interactions and resolve conflicts.
Communicating effectively to express boundaries and address stereotypes.
Understanding and advocating for consent and respect in relationships.

Planning for the Future

Overview

This unit focuses on understanding the importance of financial literacy, planning for the future, making informed career choices, and developing essential skills for personal and professional growth. It includes activities and discussions on money management, planning, job selection, motivation, typical jobs for teenagers, and addressing academic pressures.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of money and its sources.
Awareness of different career options and their requirements.
Previous discussions on personal skills and interests.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

The importance of planning for the future and at what age it should start.
Factors influencing job choices, such as money, satisfaction, location, flexibility, suitability, and prospects. Identifying potential careers based on personal talents and interests.
The importance of motivation in work and reasons for being motivated by what you do.
Typical jobs for teenagers, important skills and qualities needed for each job. Addressing academic pressures and advice for managing stress.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Financial Literacy: Understanding money management and its implications.
Planning and Organizational Skills: Learning when and how to plan for the future.
Decision-Making Skills: Evaluating job factors and making informed career choices.
Communication Skills: Improving written and spoken communication through various activities.
Critical Thinking: Analyzing and reflecting on different viewpoints and scenarios.
Empathy and Stress Management: Providing advice and support for managing academic pressures and personal well-being.

Identity

Overview

This unit focuses on understanding stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination, and how to tackle them effectively. It explores various forms of prejudice, including gender-based discrimination and LGBTQ+ issues, aiming to develop skills in recognizing, challenging, and preventing prejudice.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

No specific prior knowledge is assumed, but a basic understanding of societal norms and interactions would be helpful.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Definition and examples of stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination.
The impact of stereotypes on individuals and society.
Types of discrimination and their consequences.
Strategies to intervene against prejudice and discrimination.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Critical thinking to distinguish between stereotypes and facts.
Analytical skills to understand how stereotypes lead to prejudice.
Empathy and awareness of the impact of discrimination on different groups.
Intervention skills to challenge biased behaviours and attitudes.

Communities

Overview

This unit focuses on exploring British values, community issues, and diverse values. Participants will engage in discussions and activities aimed at understanding differing perspectives and values within communities.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of cultural diversity and community dynamics.
Familiarity with the concept of values and their significance in societal contexts.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Exploration of British values and their importance in society.
Understanding of how diverse communities navigate and interpret values.
Skills in analysing and reflecting on scenarios involving conflicting values.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Critical thinking: Evaluating different viewpoints on community issues.
Cultural awareness: Recognising and respecting diverse values and perspectives.
Communication: Articulating personal views and understanding of values in community contexts.

Risk and Safety

Overview

This unit focuses on understanding alcohol and other legal and illegal substances, their impacts, consumption guidelines, and making informed choices regarding their use.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of biology (body systems), awareness of legal frameworks (age restrictions), and some knowledge of the effects of substances on health and behaviour.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Understanding the effects of alcohol on the body and mind.
Differentiating safe versus unsafe alcohol consumption.
Risks associated with legal substances like tobacco and energy drinks.
Dangers and legal implications of illegal drug use.
Strategies for making informed, pressure-free decisions.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Critical thinking about substance use and its consequences.
Decision-making skills in peer-pressure situations.
Awareness of legal implications related to substance use.
Research and evaluation of information on substance use and its effects.

Healthy Lifestyles

Overview

In this unit, you will explore concepts related to resilience and negative thinking patterns. You will learn strategies to enhance resilience, identify and address negative thinking patterns, and understand how these concepts relate to managing change, loss, bereavement, or grief.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of emotional experiences and coping mechanisms.
Familiarity with common psychological terms and concepts.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Resilience: Skills and strategies to recover from difficulties and adapt to adversity.
Negative Thinking Patterns: Common cognitive distortions such as catastrophising, overgeneralising, and mind reading.
Reframing: Techniques to think about situations in a more positive or constructive way.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Resilience-building: Techniques to enhance personal resilience in face of challenges.
Cognitive restructuring: Strategies to identify and challenge negative thinking patterns.
Support-seeking: Understanding where and how to seek help during times of change, loss, bereavement, or grief.

Growing Up

Overview

This unit covers essential topics related to growing up, focusing primarily on understanding consent, healthy relationships, and the legal aspects surrounding these issues.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of relationships, respect, and communication.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Definition and importance of consent.
Differentiating between healthy and unhealthy relationships.
Legal implications of consent and related laws.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Communication skills for discussing boundaries and consent.
Awareness of legal rights and responsibilities regarding consent.
Ability to identify signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships.

Planning for the Future

Overview

In considering my future, several factors will significantly influence the type of employment I might enter, the role of education, its costs, and future employment trends. These include evolving job markets, education's impact on career paths, economic factors like unemployment rates, and the role of employment laws and trade unions in shaping workplace conditions.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Understanding of basic employment concepts, the influence of education on career prospects, economic principles such as supply and demand in the job market, and familiarity with trade unions and their roles.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Insight into future employment trends including job fluidity, self-employment trends, the importance of workplace perks and diversity, and the impact of technology on various job sectors.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Critical thinking about career planning, evaluating the impact of educational choices on future career paths, analysing economic trends affecting employment, and understanding the legal and organisational aspects of employment.
This structured approach helps in understanding how different elements interact to shape career paths and workplace dynamics in the evolving job market.

Planning for the Future

Overview

This unit focuses on personal development and academic success strategies through various topics including vision, effort, mindset, exam stress, relaxation, and responsible decision-making.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of study habits, self-awareness, and stress management.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Techniques to improve study habits and academic performance.
Understanding the differences between fixed and growth mindsets.
Strategies to manage exam stress and promote relaxation.
Awareness of the impacts of alcohol and making responsible choices.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Study skills enhancement.
Mindset cultivation (fixed vs. growth).
Stress management and relaxation techniques.
Decision-making and responsible behaviour.

Communities

Overview

This unit focuses on the concepts of difference, hate crime, gang crime, and criminal exploitation, as well as understanding the differences between mental and physical abuse, and recognizing healthy versus unhealthy relationships. It includes activities such as defining key terms, analysing scenarios, and reading extracts to facilitate understanding and discussion.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of health and well-being.
Familiarity with previous discussions about healthy lifestyles and relationships.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

Difference: Understanding the concept of difference and its impact on various professions and individuals.
Hate Crime: Definition and examples of hate crime, and its implications.
Gang Crime: Understanding gang crime, its consequences, and the difference between gangs and friendship groups.
Criminal Exploitation: Definition and examples of criminal exploitation.
Mental vs. Physical Abuse: Differences between mental and physical abuse and their signs.
Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships: Characteristics of healthy relationships versus unhealthy ones, including understanding domestic abuse.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Critical Thinking: Evaluating scenarios, reflecting on personal views, and making informed decisions.
Communication Skills: Articulating thoughts on complex topics, discussing sensitive issues respectfully.
Empathy and Respect: Understanding others' experiences and feelings, promoting civility.
Reflective Skills: Analysing personal and others' behaviours and decisions.
Problem-Solving: Identifying issues in relationships and scenarios, finding appropriate solutions.

Risk and Safety

Overview

This unit covers a broad range of topics, including the definition and categories of prescription drugs, the reasons behind their misuse, the dangers associated with them, and the societal views on drug use and marriage within different religious denominations.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of what prescription drugs are.
General knowledge of the effects and risks associated with drug use.
Awareness of societal and cultural views on drug use and marriage.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

The detailed definition and classification of prescription drugs.
Reasons why people misuse prescription drugs and the misconceptions surrounding their dangers.
The long-term effects and dangerous consequences of prescription drug abuse.
The influence of individual personality, situational factors, and the availability/effects of drugs on drug use.
The recent changes in the stance of the Methodist Church on same-sex marriages and its implications.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Critical thinking and analysis regarding drug use and its societal impacts.
Understanding and interpreting societal and religious changes.
Evaluating the reasons behind drug misuse and the factors influencing it.

Healthy Lifestyles

Overview

We are learning about the potential effects of exam stress on our physical and emotional wellbeing, and ways to manage it.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of stress and anxiety.
General knowledge about the benefits of exercise.
Familiarity with creating and following a timetable or schedule.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

The impact of physical inactivity on your body during revision periods.
How physical activity can release cortisol, which helps manage stress.
The benefits of exercise as a coping strategy for managing stress, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts.
Methods to integrate exercise into your revision routine, such as listening to educational podcasts or videos while exercising.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Creating an effective revision timetable.
Incorporating regular breaks and exercise into your study routine.
Identifying key areas to revise while ensuring all content is covered.
Utilising physical activity as a strategy to manage stress and maintain focus.

Growing Up

Overview

In this unit, you will explore various scenarios related to pregnancy, contraception, and conflict management in relationships. The unit will also cover topics such as legal questions regarding marriage and cohabitation.

Prior knowledge you will need for this unit

Basic understanding of human reproduction and contraception methods.
Awareness of different relationship dynamics and family structures.
Knowledge of emotional and mental health concepts.

New knowledge you will learn in this unit

The influence of personal, cultural, and community factors on decisions related to unplanned pregnancies.
Options and resources available for contraception and pregnancy support.
Effective conflict management strategies in different types of relationships.
Legal aspects of marriage, cohabitation, and relationship dissolution.

Skills you will develop in this unit

Analytical skills to assess the impact of various factors on decision-making.
Communication skills to discuss sensitive topics within a group.
Problem-solving skills to navigate complex emotional and relational scenarios.
Conflict management skills to handle disagreements in relationships constructively.

Year 7

Transition

Communities

Risk and Safety

Healthy Lifestyles

Growing Up

Planning for the Future

Year 8

Identity

Communities

Risk and Safety

Healthy Lifestyles

Growing Up

Planning for the Future

Year 9

Identity

Communities

Risk and Safety

Healthy Lifestyles

Growing Up

Planning for the Future

Year 10

Identity

Communities

Risk and Safety

Healthy Lifestyles

Growing Up

Planning for the Future

Year 11

Planning for the Future

Communities

Risk and Safety

Healthy Lifestyles

Growing Up