Personal Development Autumn Term Update ( Published: 15/10/2026)

Through our Personal Development curriculum, which brings together PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic education) and Citizenship, we aim to give our students the practical knowledge, confidence and critical thinking skills they need to look after themselves and others, both in school and in life beyond our gates.

Why We Teach Personal Development

Growing up today comes with plenty of challenges, both online and offline. Our curriculum is planned carefully so that topics build year on year in an age-appropriate way, giving students a safe, structured space to ask questions and discuss real-world issues.

Our lessons also meet national statutory requirements set by the Department for Education (DfE):

• Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE)
  All secondary schools are legally required to teach RSHE. This means giving young people clear, factual information about physical and mental health, puberty, reproductive health, consent, privacy, and what healthy, respectful relationships look like
• National Curriculum Citizenship
  Across Key Stages 3 and 4, students learn how the UK is governed, how the law works, what their rights and responsibilities are, and how Britain fits into the wider world
• Safeguarding and Life in Modern Britain
  By teaching students the right vocabulary and legal facts, we help them spot unhealthy behaviours early, challenge stigma around health topics, and know exactly where to go for medical or pastoral support if they ever need it

Because these topics are so important for student safety and wellbeing, we never skip a session. If a school event or survey ever interrupts a form time or lesson, tutors teach the missed session the following week so that no year group misses out on key learning.

What Each Year Group Is Covering This Term

Here is a look at what students have been focusing on during the first half of the Autumn term, and what they will move on to after the October half-term break:

Year 7

This half term – settling into secondary school has focused on understanding the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Students have looked at how the teenage brain develops, personal hygiene, bodily privacy, and menstrual health – with a big focus on removing embarrassment and stigma around periods.

Next half term – we will move on to mental wellbeing and friendships. Students will learn how to tell the difference between normal, everyday worries and clinical mental health conditions, alongside practical advice on building good friendships, setting personal boundaries, and handling peer pressure.

Year 8

This half term – students have been building on their health knowledge by looking at gynaecological health, the basics of fertility, and how to look after their bodies. We have also explored healthy daily routines (including the risks of spending too much time sitting down and on screens) and how media and culture affect body image.

Next half term – the focus shifts to relationships and staying safe online. Lessons will cover how to recognise healthy and unhealthy behaviours in friendships and early romantic relationships, as well as digital boundaries, online privacy, and keeping personal data safe.

Year 9

This half term – Year 9 have split their time between health and global citizenship. They have explored clinical mental health and healthy ways to cope with big life changes, alongside learning about universal human rights, international law, and how global organisations work together.

Next half term – looking ahead to their future options, students will focus on careers, employability skills, and the local job market. They will also revisit relationship education, focusing on respect, boundaries, and what makes a healthy romantic partnership.

Year 10

This half term – students have been diving into UK politics and active citizenship. They have looked at how the British Constitution and Parliament work, the UK’s role in international alliances, and how ordinary citizens can hold those in power to account and make positive changes in their communities.

Next half term – lessons will look at the legal and practical sides of adult life. We will cover the legal differences between marriage, civil partnerships and living together, alongside family life, contraception, and pregnancy choices. Students will also learn about their rights at work and health and safety laws.

Year 11

This half term – with a busy year ahead, Year 11 have been focusing on managing exam stress, keeping up healthy routines, and preparing for life after TEMA, including college and apprenticeship applications and basic financial skills.

Next half term – we will focus on preparing students for greater independence. Sessions will cover how to access adult health services, staying safe in relationships, consumer and employment rights, and registering to vote.

Talking About These Topics at Home

Personal Development works best when school and home work together. Knowing what is coming up each half term can be a great starting point for conversations at home – whether that is chatting about something in the news, talking through post-16 plans, or checking in on how they manage their time online.

If you have any questions about what your child is learning in Personal Development, or if you would like to look at our RSHE policy and lesson resources, please get in touch (l.johnston@temac.co.uk).