The Personal Development Curriculum

At Fairfield, we understand that education is not merely the delivery of powerful knowledge, it is the cultivation of experiences, the shaping of character, and the embedding of our core values. It is for this reason that we have developed an outstanding Personal Development Curriculum. Our pupils leave not only prepared for the next stage of their lives, with knowledge, cultural capital and life-changing qualifications but equipped with respect, resilience, and aspiration to emerge as successful learners, confident individuals, and responsible citizens.

Through the Personal Development Curriculum, a rich set of experiences is offered; experience days, trips and visits, extra-curricular activities and the teaching of our core values and behaviours to develop character, success and confidence. The Personal Development curriculum ensures the development of spiritual, moral, social and cultural awareness and appreciation, understanding of British Values, learning about online safety and an expertly delivered careers programme. Pupils are taught relationship, sex and health education as part of the Life Skills (PSHE) curriculum. Through the PE and Food Technology programmes of study, pupils learn about staying healthy and active. The curriculum supports the building of character through our school values. We support pupils to have high aspirations and to work hard, to embrace challenges and celebrate success, to show resilience and learn from mistakes, find their voice and believe in themselves, to show respect and kindness to all and to celebrate diversity and empower others. In summary, the Fairfield Personal Development Curriculum consists of nine core components:

  1. Relationships and Sex Education (RSE)
  2. Health and Wellbeing Education
  3. Online and Digital Safety
  4. Citizenship and British Values
  5. Aspiration and the Future
  6. Diversity and Empowerment
  7. Character and Values (Moral and Social) Education
  8. Religious Studies and Spiritual Education
  9. Aspiration, Talents and Interests

This is primarily delivered through:

  • The Form Time Programme
  • The Assembly Programme
  • Personal Development Curriculum Days
  • The Life Skills Curriculum
  • Curriculum Enrichment Experiences (trips, visitors, activities)
  • Other Subject Curricula (Drama, Computing, PE, Technology)

 

In KS3 pupils will experience at least 50 hours of learning time as part of the Personal Development Curriculum

 

 

Personal Development Theme 2025/26

In 2025/26, the Personal Development curriculum theme, to celebrate and promote diversity, wellbeing and empowerment is, “Be You. Be Well. Be Heard.”



"Be You" – encourages self-awareness and individuality, pupils will be supported to discover and embrace who they are.  It promotes diversity and inclusion; everyone is valued for their unique background, personality, and strengths.

"Be Well" –  focuses on wellbeing, supporting mental, emotional, and physical health. The curriculum will support pupils to build resilience and helps pupils manage stress, setbacks, and challenges.

"Be Heard" – celebrates the pupil voice and female empowerment. The curriculum will encourage pupils to express their ideas, opinions, and concerns and fosters active participation in learning, in school life, and the wider community.