PSHE and RSHE

At High Ash CE Primary School, our PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic education) and RSHE (Relationships, Sex and Health Education) curriculum is designed to help every child grow into a confident, caring, and resilient individual. Built on strong, purposeful foundations—coherence, depth, and clear progression—our curriculum is inspired by our Christian vision:

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

What We Aim to Achieve (Intent) We want every pupil to build strong emotional literacy, social awareness, and the personal confidence needed to thrive both in school and the wider world. Using the structured Jigsaw scheme, children explore vital life themes—including personal identity, healthy relationships, physical and mental wellbeing, and active citizenship—helping them flourish as individuals while living out our school values.

Why Jigsaw?

Jigsaw brings together PSHE, RSHE, emotional literacy, mindfulness, social skills, and spiritual development in a structured and engaging way. It is fully aligned with the statutory Relationships and Health Education guidance and provides age-appropriate content from Early Years to Year 6.

Our Approach Through Jigsaw:

• Whole-Child Development
  Jigsaw nurtures children’s personal development, helping them to understand themselves, manage emotions, build positive relationships, and make responsible choices.

• Structured, Progressive Curriculum
  Jigsaw is built around six half-termly units (‘puzzles’), each with a whole-school focus:

  • Being Me in My World

  • Celebrating Difference

  • Dreams and Goals

  • Healthy Me

  • Relationships

  • Changing Me

How Learning Happens (Implementation)

• Building Step-by-Step: Learning grows with your child. Using six core themes revisited each year, concepts develop naturally. For example, learning about relationships starts with recognising feelings and friendships in the Foundation Stage, progressing to navigating peer dynamics and understanding healthy boundaries by Year 6.

• Connected to Daily Learning: PSHE isn't taught in isolation. A unit like "Healthy Me" links directly to Science (nutrition and the human body), PE (fitness), and RE (reflection and community responsibility). School assemblies and special themed weeks keep these lessons relevant and pertinent every day.

• Encouraging Thoughtful Discussion: Lessons create safe, engaging spaces for children to ask big questions, consider different perspectives, and learn practical strategies for managing their emotions and making positive choices.

• Inclusive for Every Child: We ensure every pupil can participate fully through visual tools, group discussions, and tailored support. Sensitive topics are always handled with warmth, age-appropriate care, and professional guidance.

• Checking Understanding: Teachers guide progress through pupil discussions, reflection journals, and ongoing feedback, ensuring lessons adapt to meet children's real-time needs.

The Difference It Makes (Impact) Our pupils leave us as empathetic, resilient, and thoughtful young people. They know how to express their feelings, support their peers, and make a positive difference in their communities—fully prepared to navigate life with heart, integrity, and confidence.