At Ellis Guilford School, Personal Development is an essential part of our curriculum. Through learning about health and wellbeing, relationships, citizenship, careers and personal safety, we help children develop the knowledge, skills and character needed to thrive in school and beyond.

Our Vision for Personal Development

At Ellis Guilford School, our Personal Development curriculum is designed to be engaging, inclusive and relevant, providing a safe and supportive space where every child can explore their identity, values, and ambitions. Rooted in our core values of ambition, integrity and respect, the curriculum nurtures curiosity about the world and empowers children to understand themselves, others and their community.

We aim to deliver a curriculum that inspires and educates, equipping young people with the knowledge, confidence, and emotional intelligence to navigate life’s challenges in a healthy and informed way. Through meaningful exploration of relationships, health, rights, responsibilities, and the wider world, children will develop a strong sense of purpose, self-worth and belonging.

Our Personal Development programme teaches children to respect diverse viewpoints and life experiences – fostering empathy and understanding of others. It encourages critical thinking and the ability to engage in respectful dialogue, helping children to build and maintain healthy, supportive relationships.

We deliver a knowledge-rich curriculum that develops the skills and understanding necessary for children to make informed decisions and critically evaluate the world around them. Through the development of cultural capital and exposure to significant ideas and experiences, children become informed citizens with the ability to access and contribute their communities.

We want all children to see themselves as valued members of their school and wider community, capable of making a difference.

Through this curriculum, children explore the impact they can have on others, learn how to affect positive change, and recognise the role they play in shaping a fairer, more inclusive future.

Ultimately, our Personal Development curriculum supports children to become thoughtful, responsible, and active citizens – confident in themselves, connected to others, and committed to making the world a better place through their words and actions.

Personal Development Lead

Ben McCalla
Assistant Principal

If you have any questions about the Personal Development curriculum, including lesson content, resources or curriculum plans, please contact Ben directly.

Email: ben.mccalla@ellisguilfordschool.org.uk

Curriculum Information for Parents and Carers

We value working in partnership with parents and carers and are committed to being open and transparent about the content taught through our Personal Development programme.

Parents and carers who would like to view curriculum materials or discuss any aspect of the programme are welcome to contact Ben McCalla, Personal Development Lead.

Enrichment Opportunities

Personal Development extends beyond the classroom through a range of enrichment opportunities available to children.

Our Ellis Electives programme provides children with access to after-school clubs, academic support sessions and wider enrichment activities, helping them develop new skills, discover interests and build confidence.