Newton-le-Willows Primary School
Personal Development & Well-Being
At Newton Primary School, our Personal Development Curriculum looks beyond the National Curriculum to ensure our pupils grow into confident, emotionally literate, socially responsible young people who are ready to contribute positively to both their local and global communities.
Our aim is to help children develop the skills, attitudes and values needed to thrive now and in the future. This sits at the heart of our STRIVE values and underpins everything we do in school. Our approach to Personal Development includes:
PATHS (Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies) – weekly lessons for all pupils developing emotional awareness, self-regulation, problem solving and positive relationships.
Relationships & Sex Education (RSE) – carefully sequenced lessons that help pupils understand themselves, their relationships, and the world around them. This includes friendships, personal safety, emotional health, respecting boundaries, understanding diversity, and making safe, responsible choices.
Safeguarding Education – regular work on online safety, healthy relationships, NSPCC workshops, road safety sessions, and wider wellbeing.
Character & Values Education – our STRIVE values help pupils develop resilience, teamwork, empathy, responsibility, and aspiration.
Pupil Leadership – opportunities such as School Ambassadors, Playground Leaders, and other responsibilities that promote pupil voice and democracy.
Charity & Social Action – whole-school fundraising, awareness events, and opportunities to contribute to the community.
Aspirations & Careers Awareness – experiences and visitors that help children understand the world of work and broaden their ambitions.
Assemblies – a rich programme exploring values, wellbeing, British Values, SMSC development, national events, and cultural celebrations.
Enrichment & Events – including educational visits, residentials, sports competitions, arts and cultural experiences, and teamwork programmes such as KABS.
Together, these elements form a well-rounded Personal Development offer that supports every child to develop the knowledge, character, and confidence they need to succeed - not just academically, but as thoughtful, responsible and compassionate members of society.