Geography
PSHE has strong links with the Geography curriculum as it enables our pupils to gain a sense of place, people and culture whilst developing an understanding of how people, places and communities are connected locally and globally.
Spiritual education in Geography at QEHS inspires awe and wonder at the physical and human world. Understanding that all life is linked together to make Earth the only known inhabited planet in the universe, as well as the need to protect this unique habitat for future generations, is an important part of the curriculum. Students reflect on the long- and short-term impacts of human activity, noting the rights and wrongs, and linking this to stewardship of the Earth.
Moral education in Geography provides opportunities for students to recognise that development takes place within a global context and that local decisions affect, and are affected by, decisions and processes in other countries. Geographical study allows students to explore moral issues through a range of geographical issues enabling the promotion of a moral code.
Social education in Geography involves the study of real people in different societies. In looking at their own locality and others around the world, students’ sense of identity and community can be strengthened. Within the classroom, honesty and thoughtfulness is celebrated, independence and self-respect are promoted and class debate and discussion are regularly encouraged. Geography at QEHS promotes co-operative working both within the classroom and whilst completing fieldwork. We ensure grouping in lessons promotes collaboration between students of all abilities.
Cultural education involves understanding different societies and is an integral part of Geographical study. It provides ample opportunities for multi-cultural education through recognising commonalities and differences within traditions and belief systems across the planet. Any form of discrimination within the classroom is addressed and challenged through discussion and informed debate.
British Values education in Geography encourages pupils to explore how places have been changed by the contexts and processes that have shaped them. It helps students to understand the complex ways in which communities and societies are linked and to appreciate the diversity of people’s backgrounds. Geography also helps pupils to understand society better. Appreciating diversity encourages positive relationships and shared values. It promotes tolerance and partnership, within local and wider communities.
History
PSHE has strong links with the History curriculum as it enables our pupils to understand the past and how it links to the present, this then helps our understanding of our long human story. All societies are living histories – the product of all that has been inherited from the past, shaping our present and contributing to our future. We live in societies with languages, cultures, traditions and religions that have evolved over millennia. We use technologies that have developed from the earliest flint tools to computerised virtual assistant technology – each stage contributing a chapter to the narrative of our human experience. We aim to enable pupils to understand that there are multiple interpretations of the past – the past is not simply ‘dead and gone’ but is continually being re-interpreted.
Spiritual education History at QEHS encompasses the understanding of the religious and spiritual beliefs of different societies and their customs. Pupils learn about how important those beliefs are to different people. They study the importance of different beliefs and how they have helped shape society today, specifically in Year 8 and GCSE when pupils learn about the Reformation and religious persecution. They learn about oppression and the importance of tolerance; pupils discuss their opinions with peers to inspire thoughtfulness and empathy.
Moral education in History, pupils are encouraged to consider and comment on the moral questions and dilemmas faced by historical figures. They learn about the different cultures and values of the people in those societies and learn to develop the ability to empathise with decisions made in the past. Pupils are encouraged to make ethical judgements from a historical point of view and analyse sources of evidence to determine their moral inferences – specifically in Year 9 when pupils study the Holocaust.
Social education includes debating and communicating as part of a team and supports social development; pupils are encouraged to collaborate on a wide variety of activities. Pupils consider what past societies and other cultures have contributed to the development of ‘British’ culture today, specifically in Year 8 when pupils study the impact of the British Empire. History offers pupils an opportunity to express themselves and connect their philosophies.
Cultural education involves pupils being encouraged to develop a better understanding of people from different cultural backgrounds. They are encouraged to study links between local, British, European and world history to develop a gratitude of our multi-cultural society. Ways in which events have shaped our culture and society are explored and the causes and consequences of cultural conflict and prejudice considered. This is studied throughout a pupil’s journey at QEHS and specifically in Year 7 as pupils conduct a ‘Black History Project’ to inspire cultural appreciation, tolerance and acceptance.
British Values education at QEHS aims to promote these values through historical studies. British values, including those of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs are embedded in the History curriculum. Teaching pupils to respect and value diversity is encouraged in everyday teaching and learning through showing respect for different opinions and ideas as well as in the ability to work effectively together, both individually and in groups.
EPR/RE
PSHE has strong links with the RE curriculum as it enables our pupils to study a multitude of cultures and social settings through exploring different spiritual beliefs and practices.
Spiritual education in EPR/RE at QEHS sees pupils exploring the deeply held convictions of diverse groups and highlights different aspects of faith and belief.
Moral education in EPR/RE provides opportunities for students to explore the ethics and morality of differing faiths present in the UK.
Social education in EPR/RE involves the study of diverse social customs and practices present within the UK.
Cultural education involves the study and analysis of multiple religious faiths and the cultures that gave birth to them.
British Values education in EPR/RE at QEHS highlights the variety and range of religious and cultural tolerance in the UK in line with proscribed British Values. It promotes religious freedom and the virtues of a democratic society.
