Personal Development and Wellbeing at ashton

At Ashton Primary School, we are committed to helping every pupil grow into a confident, responsible, and caring individual. Our personal development programme is carefully planned and designed to support children academically, socially, and emotionally, giving them the skills they need to thrive both now and in the future.

Leadership and Vision

Our Headteacher and Assistant Headteacher provide leadership for personal development. They ensure that all programmes are purposeful, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of our pupils. Key themes are mapped across the school year to ensure that learning is continuous and meaningful.

We celebrate diversity and individuality through initiatives such as ‘We Are Ashton’ and ‘Every Brain is Welcome’, teaching pupils to value differences and understand that diversity is a strength. Activities like World Autism Awareness Day and ‘Bright for Sight’ help pupils develop empathy, challenge stereotypes, and deepen their understanding of inclusion.

Throughout the year, pupils take part in themed events such as Mental Health Awareness Week, Anti-Bullying Week, Pride Month, Safer Internet Day, Earth Day, and celebrations of religious festivals like Eid. These events are supported by assemblies, lessons, and ongoing discussion, helping pupils reflect on key issues and develop strong social and moral understanding.

Our Personal Development Programme

Our personal development programme covers all year groups and is designed to build confidence, resilience, and responsibility. Pupils with SEND benefit from carefully adapted provision so that everyone can fully engage and develop independence, confidence, and social skills.

Key aspects include:

• PSHE & RSE: Our structured curriculum teaches pupils about relationships, health, wellbeing, and mental health. Pupils learn to understand emotions, develop coping strategies, and know how to seek help when needed.
• Votes for Schools: Weekly assemblies explore real-world issues. Pupils discuss, debate, and vote on topics, developing critical thinking, communication skills, and confidence in expressing their views.
• Helping Heroes: Each term, pupils focus on themes such as safety, health, poverty, or the environment. Through projects and campaigns, they learn the impact they can make in their community and the wider world.

Enrichment and Extra-Curricular Opportunities

We offer a wide range of activities beyond the classroom to support pupils’ personal growth:

• Clubs and Activities: Options include sports (football, netball, tag rugby), arts (theatre, dance, crafts), STEM activities, and more. Pupils are actively consulted on club choices to ensure high engagement.
• Educational Visits and Residentials: Pupils participate in local community trips, museum visits, and residential experiences such as the Year 6 trip to Borwick Hall, which promote teamwork, independence, and resilience.
• Pupil Leadership: Opportunities like school council, eco club, and sports leaders allow pupils to take meaningful roles and contribute to school life.

Participation is strong and inclusive, with over 90% of pupils involved in at least one extra-curricular activity each year. Financial support ensures that every pupil can join in, including those eligible for Pupil Premium.

Preparation for Life Beyond School

We help pupils prepare for modern life by teaching essential skills such as managing risk, maintaining positive relationships, understanding rights and responsibilities, financial awareness, and online safety. Careers education and STEM activities introduce pupils to different professions, challenge stereotypes, and inspire future aspirations.

Pastoral Support and Wellbeing

Our school provides tailored support for pupils’ wellbeing:

• Learning Mentor and Thrive Programme: Targeted support helps pupils manage challenges and build emotional resilience.
• Safeguarding and Pupil Voice: Regular surveys, drop-in sessions, and secure messaging ensure pupils feel safe, supported, and heard.
• Inclusive Support: Pupils in our SEND unit, The Burrow, receive personalised programmes to meet their individual needs.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Diversity is celebrated and integrated into every aspect of school life. Our curriculum, assemblies, and displays promote respect, fairness, and understanding. Pupils learn about the protected characteristics and fundamental British values, helping them grow into responsible and caring citizens.

Parental Involvement

We value strong partnerships with parents and carers. Opportunities such as workshops, ‘come and see’ weeks, and school events help families engage with their child’s personal development and wellbeing.

The Impact

Our holistic approach ensures that pupils leave our school confident, articulate, and respectful of others. They develop empathy, resilience, and a strong sense of responsibility, ready to thrive in the next stage of their education and life in modern Britain.