Intent

At our school, we are committed to nurturing the whole child through a well-structured and progressive PSHE curriculum. We use SCARF (Safety, Caring, Achievement, Resilience, Friendship), a comprehensive scheme of work designed specifically for primary schools. SCARF supports pupils in developing essential life skills and knowledge, covering key areas such as emotional well-being, healthy lifestyles, relationships, and safety.

Our intent is to provide a consistent, whole-school approach that promotes positive behaviour, mental health, wellbeing, resilience, and academic achievement. SCARF goes beyond the statutory curriculum, offering age-appropriate lessons and activities that help children build confidence, resilience, and a sense of responsibility. It also supports teachers in creating a safe, inclusive classroom environment where all pupils feel valued and respected.

Implementation 

PSHE is embedded throughout our school culture and daily teaching practice, ensuring that it is not confined to standalone lessons but is a consistent part of pupils’ lived experience. We use the SCARF scheme to deliver weekly, structured lessons that are age-appropriate, engaging, and inclusive. These lessons are enhanced through interactive activities such as role-play, storytelling, and group discussions, which help children apply their learning to real-life contexts.

Beyond the classroom, we enrich our PSHE provision through whole-school initiatives and community-focused events. Pupils regularly participate in national awareness days such as Children’s Mental Health Week and Children in Need, which help to foster empathy, social responsibility, and a strong sense of community. These experiences reinforce the values taught in lessons and provide meaningful opportunities for pupils to put their learning into action.

We are committed to ensuring that all children receive equitable access to high-quality PSHE education. Teachers create safe, inclusive environments where every child feels heard and supported. PSHE is carefully planned and differentiated to meet the needs of all learners, including those with SEND, so that every pupil can develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to look after themselves and others.

By integrating PSHE into both our curriculum and wider school life, we ensure that pupils are consistently supported in developing the emotional literacy, resilience, and social awareness they need to thrive both in school and beyond.

Impact

Our PSHE curriculum is designed to support the holistic development of every child from Nursery through to Year 2. Through carefully planned, age-appropriate lessons and activities, children develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential for their current well-being and future success.

As a result of our consistent and inclusive approach, pupils demonstrate increased self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the ability to manage their emotions effectively. This supports the development of strong social skills, teamwork, and a sense of belonging within both the school and wider community.

Throughout their time at The Mead, children gain a secure understanding of health in all its forms—physical, mental, and emotional. They learn how to form and maintain healthy relationships, stay safe, and make informed choices. These foundations are critical in helping them navigate the challenges of growing up with confidence and resilience.

In addition, pupils are introduced to the concept of financial literacy through engaging stories and activities, helping them to understand the value of money and its role in everyday life. By the end of Key Stage 1, children leave with a well-rounded understanding of how to care for themselves and others, equipped with the tools they need to thrive both now and in the future.