Philosophy for Children (P4C) is an approach to learning that is at the core of what we do at St. Mary’s. P4C is used as a generic teaching and learning tool to deliver many aspects of the curriculum. A cross curricular approach is encouraged and P4C is regularly used to deliver many aspects of Literacy, History, Geography, Science, R.E, Art and our school values. Each class has the minimum of a weekly P4C session – whether integrated as part of the curriculum or stand alone.

At St Mary's we focus on the 4 key P4C thinking skills (caring, collaborative, creative and critical thinking) and we use these to monitor each child’s development.

Philosophical enquiry underpins the ideas and values of the way we believe our school should be. We aim to create an environment where children feel that they have the freedom to explore ideas and ask questions in all areas of school life.

PSHE and Relationships Education

As a school we have recently reviewed our Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE) policy in light of the government now making Health and Relationships Education a compulsory part of children’s education.

Relationships and Health Education at St Mary’s has always been taught as part of Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE). The government has now made Health and Relationships Education a statutory teaching requirement in order to ensure that the quality and time allocated to the subject remains consistent across all schools.

Through the teaching of PSHE and Relationships we aim to ensure that children acquire the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to stay healthy, safe and thrive now and in the future. With regard to Relationships Education, our focus is on teaching the fundamental building blocks and characteristics of positive relationships, with particular reference to friendships and relationships with peers, family and other adults. With regard to Health Education our focus is on teaching the characteristics of good physical health and mental wellbeing. We are clear that mental wellbeing is a normal part of everyday life in the same way as physical health. The topics are designed to help children from all backgrounds to build positive and safe relationships and to thrive in modern Britain.

We are aware that discussing and teaching about complex or sensitive issues safely and in an age-appropriate manner,  is central to best practice in all PSHE teaching, as every topic in PSHE education has the potential to be sensitive for pupils. With this in mind we plan our language use, resources and activities carefully drawing on a wealth of information and resources. It is vital that in each case, pupils are able to have such discussions and engage in age appropriate learning activities in a safe climate of trust, cooperation and support. Addressing a range of topics with children in KS1 supports their learning as they are growing and will help them to feel more comfortable talking about PSHE topics throughout their school lives (and beyond).  PSHE and Relationships Education is a partnership between schools and parents and carers, we feel that it is important that you are informed through our planning overviews of the subject matter being covered in each PSHE lesson. An overview of topics which are being covered in the half term is available on the school website on each Year Group Overview.