REVIEW OF PSHEC
As Link Governor I recently undertook a visit to observe the way in which PSHEC (Personal, Social Health Education and Citizenship) is taught in Prince Henry’s. PSE covers a multitude of subjects each of which is important in the growth of the students, as they become mature young people. PSHEC engages the students in thinking about smoking and drugs, bullying, citizenship, democracy and human rights, alcohol, family and relationships, and sex education. A positive aspect of PSHEC is that there are no exams and students are not tested in the subject areas. The advantage of this is that those who teach PSHEC are able to create stress-free areas for students to learn, discuss, debate, and reflect. Additionally, it’s worth noting that nearly a quarter of the teaching staff at Prince Henry’s is involved in teaching PSHEC bringing their life experience to bear.
The two lessons I observed were firstly, a discussion on genetic engineering, and second a lesson on rape and sexual consent. It is clear that these subjects challenge the students, as they grapple with differences of opinion and the complexities of these subjects. Sarah Thomas has played a significant role in the leadership and management of PSHEC. Her grasp of the subject and her passion to see the students given the opportunity to voice their opinions and to think through some very difficult and complex issues is impressive. PSE is an important but often hidden subject and I am confident that under Sarah’s leadership it will continue to play a meaningful role in the lives of the students.
Rev. Dr Edward Pillar
Community Governor