SCARF overview and progression documents

Intent

At St. Mary’s, our PSHE curriculum aims to give students the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their well-being, relationships, and broader societal issues. We encourage children to become empowered individuals, fostering their personal development, resilience, and a sense of responsibility.

PSHE education is embedded in our school through our Christian values of koinonia, truth, endurance and compassion. It is one of the essential threads that runs through our Early Years Foundation Unit and into Key Stage 1 and 2 enabling children to work closely together and build relationships with each other. This is at the heart of their wellbeing and is a stepping stone towards collaborative and independent learning.

Implementation

The SCARF materials that we use in school, supports and contributes to the EYFS framework's Characteristics of Effective Learning statements, particularly Personal Social, Emotional Development (PSED) and Communication and Language. SCARF Early Years plans form part of a spiral curriculum that provides the essential building blocks needed to meet the Relationships Education and Health Education requirements.

St Mary's is committed to  SCiB (Safeguarding Children in Banbury)  and undertakes projects focusing on three key aspects that have been identified in partnership with local schools, Thames Valley Police and Cherwell District Council. These areas are: substance misuse, protective behaviours and positive relationships. 

Vulnerable learners are supported through PSHE so that they have the language and protective behaviours to help them risk assess situations and take the necessary action which may include talking to adults within the school community.
Our curriculum utilises the Coram Life scheme of work and the PSHE association objectives. Progression for individual learners is measured through pre and post assessment tasks relevant to the unit of work. Children’s learning is documented through the use of floor books meaning children can reflect on their prior learning. 

If a teacher identifies a child requiring additional support to understand a concept or make good choices, they are supported in small nurture groups, focused interventions and the use of social stories. As children continue their journey through our school, they learn their rights and responsibilities as members of a loving and caring community both to each other and for themselves with the intention that this transforms them in to 21st century citizens who are loving, resilient and aspirational.

Impact

The impact of PSHE is significant, influencing not only individual children but also the broader community. By providing young people with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions, PSHE contributes to the development of well-rounded and responsible citizens. Children engaging with PSHE are better equipped to navigate challenges, make healthy lifestyle choices, and build positive relationships. Ultimately, the impact of PSHE extends beyond the classroom, contributing to the creation of a society where individuals are empowered to lead fulfilling lives and contribute positively to their communities.