Thirsk Community Primary School

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Personal Development

Personal Development Programme at Thirsk Community Primary School

At Thirsk Community Primary School, we recognise that personal development is a vital part of every pupil’s education. Our commitment extends beyond academic learning to foster the growth of confident, responsible, and well-rounded individuals.

A Holistic Approach to Personal Development

Our personal development programme includes a comprehensive PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education) curriculum, enriched by a positive school culture that supports every pupil’s wellbeing and growth. This programme:

  • Covers age-appropriate content on relationships, sex, and health education (RSHE).
  • Provides a broad range of activities beyond lessons, ensuring all pupils, including those with additional needs, benefit from diverse experiences.
  • Promotes pupils’ mental and physical health, resilience, and moral understanding.

Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) Development

We support pupils’ spiritual, moral, social, and cultural growth by:

  • Encouraging reflection on beliefs, values, and experiences.
  • Teaching pupils to recognise right and wrong and understand the consequences of their actions.
  • Fostering cooperation, respect for diversity, and active participation in community life.
  • Celebrating cultural heritage and promoting respect for different faiths and backgrounds.

Preparing Pupils for Life Beyond School

Our programme equips pupils with essential knowledge and skills to thrive in modern society by:

  • Encouraging responsible, respectful, and active citizenship.
  • Teaching pupils about fundamental values such as democracy, the rule of law, liberty, and mutual respect.
  • Providing guidance on online and offline safety, including awareness of risks like exploitation and radicalisation.
  • Supporting pupils to maintain healthy relationships and mental wellbeing.
  • Offering meaningful opportunities to develop talents and engage in artistic, sporting, and cultural activities.

Inclusion and Safeguarding

We ensure that all pupils, particularly those who are vulnerable or have additional needs, are supported through an inclusive ethos and effective pastoral care. Our school culture promotes safety, respect, and fairness, enabling pupils to discuss sensitive issues thoughtfully and confidently.

The Thirsk Passport

At Thirsk Community Primary School, our vision is to create an inspiring learning community where every pupil thrives, achieves their full potential, and shapes a brighter future. In line with our vision and our commitment to developing a broad and coherently planned, inclusive personal development programme, we are excited to introduce the Thirsk Passport.

What is the Thirsk Passport?

The Thirsk Passport is a pledge that ensures every pupil joining us in Reception will, by the time they leave in Year 6, have participated in a wide range of enriching experiences beyond the classroom. This initiative stems from a comprehensive review of our personal development provision, designed to nurture well-rounded, confident young individuals.

Experiences Included in the Thirsk Passport

The Passport includes carefully selected activities that inspire curiosity, build resilience, foster community spirit, and broaden horizons. These experiences include:

  • Visiting a city
  • Experiencing a live performance
  • Exploring the local area
  • Visiting a museum or gallery
  • Visiting the coast
  • Visiting a library
  • Learning to swim
  • Performing to an audience
  • Spending a night away from home
  • Representing the school in a competition
  • Supporting the local community
  • Taking part in a debate
  • Experiencing a different culture
  • Going on a train journey

Our Commitment

We are committed to providing a rich tapestry of opportunities that extend beyond academic learning to support each pupil’s personal, social, and emotional growth. The Thirsk Passport aligns with our school improvement priorities to develop a broad, inclusive personal development programme and to secure foundational knowledge that improves outcomes for all pupils, particularly those who are disadvantaged or have SEND.

Why the Thirsk Passport Matters

Research and inspection frameworks, including the OFSTED 2025 framework and Jersey Schools Review Framework, emphasise the importance of personal development in preparing pupils for future success. Our Passport helps ensure that pupils gain cultural capital, develop strong values, and experience a wide range of opportunities that promote confidence, independence, and community engagement.

We believe the Thirsk Passport will be a pivotal part of our pupils’ journey, helping them to thrive not only academically but also as responsible, compassionate, and ambitious citizens.