Life Matters at Consett Academy
At Consett Academy, we believe that education is about more than academic achievement. We are committed to preparing our students for life beyond the classroom, equipping them with the knowledge, skills and confidence to make informed decisions, build positive relationships and become responsible, respectful and active members of society.
Relationships, Sex, and Health Education (RSHE) education equips students with the knowledge, understanding, skills and strategies required to live healthy, safe, productive, capable, responsible and balanced lives. The curriculum encourages students to be enterprising and supports them in making positive learning choices, informed career choices, and in achieving emotional wellbeing.
A critical component of RSHE education is providing opportunities for students to reflect on and clarify their own values and attitudes and explore the complex and sometimes conflicting range of values and attitudes they encounter now and in the future. The curriculum takes into consideration events and needs within the local community. Links with community organisations such as police, fire, foodbanks and emergency support services allow planning to respond to the young people’s needs in providing facts and support.
Our Life Matters curriculum brings together a range of important areas of personal development, providing students with a carefully planned and age-appropriate programme of learning throughout Key Stages 3 and 4.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9)
At Key Stage 3, Life Matters incorporates the statutory requirements of Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) alongside Citizenship and Careers Education.
Students explore a wide range of topics, including physical and mental wellbeing, healthy and respectful relationships, online safety, personal safety, healthy lifestyles, rights and responsibilities, British values, financial awareness and future career pathways.
The curriculum supports students as they navigate adolescence, helping them to understand themselves and others, develop resilience and make safe, healthy and informed choices.
Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11)
At Key Stage 4, Life Matters builds upon the foundations established in earlier years and incorporates statutory RSHE, Citizenship, Careers Education and Philosophy and Religion (PR).
Students explore increasingly complex issues relevant to their lives and futures, developing their understanding of relationships, health, personal responsibility, equality, diversity, ethical decision-making and the wider world.
Through Philosophy and Religion, students are encouraged to consider diversity in secular and religious worldviews, develop critical thinking skills and reflect upon moral and philosophical questions.
Careers Education also supports students in preparing for their next steps, including further education, training, employment and future aspirations.
Our Approach to Life Matters
Life Matters is delivered through a progressive and inclusive curriculum, with topics revisited and developed as students move through the school. Lessons are designed to be age-appropriate, relevant and sensitive to the needs and experiences of our students.
We aim to provide a safe and supportive learning environment where students feel confident to ask questions, explore different perspectives and develop mutual respect.
Our goal is simple: to ensure every student leaves Consett Academy with the knowledge, understanding and life skills they need to stay safe, make positive choices, embrace opportunities and thrive in an ever-changing world.
