The National Curriculum (UK)
As part of the inspection framework, all schools, which are subject to the regulations of the National Curriculum, are expected to have an active policy in place for the following:
- Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) education
- Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE)
- Citizenship / Democracy
- Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning (SEAL)
The Government’s Every Child Matters initiative is a commitment to introduce measures to achieve a healthy population of young people, by helping them to develop healthy behaviour and to raise their self-esteem and achievement levels.
The five areas are:
- being healthy
- staying safe
- enjoying and achieving
- making a positive contribution
- economic well-being.
Following on from the success of the Primary programme, Education in Human Values (EHV), we are convinced that this programme for 12-14+year olds will be equally, if not more, in demand. The principal universal values of Truth, Love, Peace, Right Action and Non-violence, together with the related values, which are essential components of the Primary EHV programme, are carried into the SEE course, but with a much more mature approach.
Each principal value has many related values. For example, Truth can be expressed in the literal sense of “telling the truth”, but also by being honest with ourselves. It is learning that honesty and fair play are important to good behaviour and human relationships. It also encompasses openness, trustworthiness, reliability and courage.
Five teaching techniques are used to deliver each value:
The five areas are:
- quotation
- silent reflection
- focus (story or event)
- song (optional)
- activity
Note: there is also a “Forum” leading to questions -
“What do you think?”
The teacher resource pack contains:
- a Manual for teachers which clearly sets out the framework and methodology of the course.
- Two volumes of Learning Modules (lesson plans) for students. These modules present challenging ideas, issues and topics that stimulate students to explore, clarify and develop lasting values and skills.
- Creative ideas for planning/implementing/ enhancing school policies.
The A4 size Learning Modules are detailed and are supported with ideas for group activities and themes for school projects. Each Learning Module illustrates a value and, in an organised and coherent way, leads on to a series of related values, that make delivery of objectives easy to implement. The teaching techniques are all largely familiar to teachers.