Students at Fairfax Academy learned life‑saving skills during a visit from Young Responders at St John Ambulance – one of many powerful examples of how the PSHE curriculum is preparing young people for life beyond school.
Across multiple year groups, students practised CPR and learned how to apply a tourniquet using training dummies, before being taught to respond to an alcohol or vape‑spiking incident.
Head of PSHE and Equity, Ms Hau, said students went home eager to share what they had learned. “They were proud of the new responsibilities they could take on. These moments epitomise what PSHE is about: learning that genuinely empowers students beyond the classroom.”
The programme has also included sessions on financial literacy, as well as activities linked to Pride Month, Eid al‑Adha, National Clean Air Day and Nelson Mandela International Day.
“These ensure pupils engage with the wider world, develop cultural understanding and reflect on equity, values and global responsibility,” Ms Hau added.
There are also positive signs of growing momentum, with an increase in merits earned by Year 7 and Year 8 – a strong indicator of rising engagement.”
Fairfax Academy is also using Peerscroller to create relaxed, student‑led conversations about lived experiences, representation and school culture, helping pupils feel more comfortable speaking openly about the things that matter to them during tutor time.
“PSHE at present is not just a subject; it is a lived experience across the school. From first aid skills to financial confidence, from student voice to the celebration of diversity, PSHE is empowering students with the knowledge, values and skills they need to thrive. We are proud of the journey so far and excited for what comes next,” said Ms Hau.