A unique offering to support the personal development of pupils from as young as four years old is set to launch in September 2024 at Loughborough Amherst School.

The new Personal Development Programme (PDP) will link to statutory parts of the PSHE curriculum; however, it was developed in response to the School’s recognition of the distinct need for pupils to learn valuable life skills that aren’t featured in the formal teaching curriculum.

The Personal Development Programme is unique in that it provides a formalised through-school offer, meaning that pupils begin the Programme as soon as they enter their first year at Amherst.

The skills sessions will be tailored dependent on age; therefore, pre-Prep pupils will learn basic life skills such as getting dressed, using a knife and fork, wiping their own nose properly and tying shoelaces. Older year groups will then focus on activities such as making sandwiches, applying suncream, sewing, dialling 999 in an emergency, touch typing, food safety and first aid.

Important finance information will be covered including learning about the differences between a debit and credit card, BACS payments, what makes something value for money, whilst older year groups will cover debt, interest and inflation.

Sessions for Prep pupils will also cover information about careers, which will involve exploring different career options as well as looking at citizenship; including democracies, the role of parliament and why voting is important.

As pupils progress through Loughborough Amherst School, their PDP progresses with them, and senior school pupils can expect to cover similar topics, but at an age-appropriate level. For example, financial awareness will include budgeting but also awareness around gambling and cryptocurrencies. Careers topics will focus on mock interview skills, CV support and the introduction of work experience for Year 10s.

Additionally, Prep pupils will explore Catholic social teaching to gain a deeper understanding of what it is and why it matters, including human dignity, recognising everyone is special and identifying the behaviours that make people want to help one another to create an equal and just society that benefits all.

Izzy Clarke, Head of Prep School said: “We’re so excited to be launching the PDP in September. By creating a specific timeslot dedicated to the PDP on a weekly basis, the programme will be formalised ensuring that these incredibly important life skills are taught to our pupils. For example, learning how to sew on a button, or wrap a present; it’s so helpful for an individual to learn how to do these practical skills at a young age.”

Tom Rees, Acting Deputy Head Pastoral and DSL said: “The addition of the School’s younger pupils to this programme will have a wonderful impact on their development. Even though this is our first year of running the PDP for the senior year groups, it’s clear to see the positive difference that elements such as character-building activities, presentation skills, leading assemblies, and community outreach has had to ensure that our pupils are developing a well-rounded set of skills.”