Character

At Philips High School our character curriculum is designed to empower students to become confident, capable and compassionate individuals who contribute positively to society. Our intent is rooted in our four key principles: Success, Together, Aspire and Respect (STAR). The curriculum is split into three core themes of: health and wellbeing, relationships and living in the wider world. Lessons are delivered both as timetabled lessons, character days (off timetable days) and supported through a personal development form time and assembly programme. Pupils are signposted to appropriate services to access further support and advice and we are supported by a range of external agencies.  Although there are no formal examinations, pupils receive half-termly feedback and termly reflection sheets. Pupil voice questionnaires are also used to gauge understanding.

Through character lessons we wish to equip students with the skills, knowledge and competencies; distinct from their academic work, to help them succeed in the future. We wish them to be aware of the risks and consequences of the choices they make in their lives to remain physically and mentally healthy. Philips High School has a strong commitment to the personal, social and emotional development of every child in its care.  In accordance with the school ethos, national curriculum for citizenship, the Careers Education, Advice, Information and Guidance (CEAIG) framework, religious education and statutory and non-statutory guidance for personal, social and health education (PSHE), we aim to educate pupils so that they become emotionally strong, capable adults who can make safe, informed decisions throughout their adult lives.

All pupils in year seven to nine receive weekly character lessons. In key stage four pupils either have weekly lessons or for pupils in the Aspire pathway, compulsory elements are delivered on additional drop-down days.