Personal Development (Pathway)
Personal development is at the heart of the St Mary’s Mission: we are all on a journey towards becoming the best we can be. We firmly believe that your time here at St Mary’s will nurture you, help you to grow, and prepare you for everything that lies ahead of you.
Mr Trickett, Director of Personal Development
In today's ever-evolving and interconnected world, equipping you with the essential life skills, knowledge and attributes is more important than ever; our personal development curriculum empowers you to navigate the complexities of modern life confidently and equips you to make informed choices, manage risks, and lead a fulfilling life as an active and socially responsible citizen, ready to make a positive impact on your community and society as a whole.
Personal Development Time
Our Personal Development Time (PDT) programme incorporates PSHE and RSHE and will teach you about relationships; mental and physical health and well-being; online and offline safety; financial literacy; and give you the skills and knowledge to thrive in the professional world. You can see our curriculum overview here.
Our dedicated team of teachers ensures that our PDT programme remains relevant, inclusive, and adaptable to the evolving needs of all our learners. We foster a safe space for students to explore and debate sensitive topics and develop the necessary skills to handle real-life situations with confidence, maturity and respect. Topics are delivered through visiting speakers, interactive workshops, enrichment days, and in lessons, and constantly evaluated to keep them relevant.
What will I study in PDT?
How does our Personal Development Programme empower pupils to excel in their academic pursuits?
Our Personal Development Programme plays a pivotal role in supporting pupils' academic success. By fostering personal growth, resilience, and a positive mindset, we create an environment where students feel motivated and confident in their abilities. The skills and values cultivated through our programme, such as effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, equip students with the tools they need to excel academically and prepare for future challenges.
What extra-curricular clubs are available for students to explore their interests and develop their talents?
We offer a diverse selection of extra-curricular clubs tailored to the interests and talents of our students. From sports teams and performing arts groups to science clubs and debating societies, there is a wide array of options for students to pursue their passions and develop their skills. Our clubs provide a platform for students to engage in teamwork, leadership, and creative expression, fostering personal growth and building a sense of belonging within our school community. You can see our current Extra Curricular timetable by clicking here.
How do our enrichment opportunities broaden students' horizons and foster personal growth?
Our enrichment opportunities at St Mary’s are designed to expose students to a range of experiences that broaden their horizons and inspire them. Through educational visits, cultural trips, visiting speakers, charity projects, field trips and local and national competitions, students develop their social and cultural capital, gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, develop empathy, and enhance their social awareness. These opportunities nurture personal growth by encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones, build resilience and confidence, and become well-rounded individuals.
Where can I find your PSHE and RSHE policies?
Our policies for PSHE and RSE can be found in our policies section here.
Where can I find your PSHE and RSE Policies?
Our policies for RSE and PSHE can be found in our policies area here.