Character Education

Introduction

Our stated school mission is to create an environment for our students that nurtures “a compassionate, inclusive and hopeful outlook on humanity and the future”, so that they secure the “freedom to choose their own future and their own destinations”.

We seek a universal culture and ethos that strives for compassionate and courageous hearts, with curious and creative minds. These words become culture when constantly modelled and encouraged by all staff at all times, and when students are recognised and praised when they display these virtues. Meanwhile, we deliberately draw attention to the virtues of others; embrace diverse role models that enable our students to see who they are or who they could be in others.

Our daily tutorial programme devotes equal time to achievement and belonging. Achievement weeks explore of the values of compassion, courage, curiosity and creativity, through the development of listening, reading and oracy skills. Belonging weeks recognise, reward and celebrate all types of success.

Our fortnightly Character Education lessons are delivered by tutors. This carefully planned curriculum compromises an ever-evolving and age-sensitive personal, social, health & citizenship education (PSHCE) programme that encompasses: self-actualisation; mental and physical health; relationships and sex education; digital literacy, British values and citizenship, protective behaviours, careers education, managing personal finances; and learning how to live more independently.

We seek to promote an awe and wonder towards one’s self, others and the universe around us – and in doing so emphasise the magic and beauty of human existence.

Ms Skill is the Head of PSHCE and Character Education, designing the curriculum for a tutor team of 38 from Year 7 to Year 13. Alongside leading PSHCE, she teaches English and supports with a number of extra-curricular activities. Since joining CNS in 2019, she has obtained a Masters degree in Education Policy and continues to study in higher education.

The Curriculum

Curriculum Roadmaps

Click the image for a PDF

Key Stage 3

Year 7:

Term 1 – Understanding Character at CNS

Term 2 – Friendships and Boundaries

Term 3 – Active Citizenship

Term 4 – Digital Literacy

Term 5 – Introduction to Careers

Term 6 – Puberty and Personal Hygiene

Year 7:

Term 1 – Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing

Term 2 – Democracy and Governments

Term 3 – Personal Safety

Term 4 – Careers and Personal Success

Term 5 – Digital Literacy

Term 6 – Peer Pressure

Year 9:

Term 1 – Money Matters

Term 2 – Relationships and Sex Education

Term 3 – Careers and GCSE choices

Term 4 – Internet Safety

Term 5 – Self-image and Social Media

Term 6 – Managing Conflict and Risk

Key Stage 4

Year 10:

Term 1 – Work Experience Preparation

Term 2 – Personal Safety

Term 3 – Media Literacy

Term 4 – Healthy Friendships and Relationships

Term 5 – Fertility, Pregnancy and Parenthood

Term 6 – Social Media and the Law

Year 11:

Term 1 – Health and Wellbeing

Term 2 – Careers and Post 16 Options

Term 3 – Respectful Relationships

Term 4 – Personal Finances

Term 5 – Exam Preparation

Key Stage 5

Year 12:

• Safe Driving
• Sexual Health and Sexual Assault
• Study Skills
• Financial Literacy
• Using Social Media Safely
• Dealing with Addiction

Year 13:

• Social Media
• Gambling, Debt and Taxes
• Transitioning to Life after School
• Safe Intoxication
• Registering with Doctors and Dentists