Personal Development
At the centre of everything we do is our work on developing student character. We want to ensure that our young people to leave us with the ability to thrive in the 21st century. We want them to be kind, motivated, resilient, and ready for their next step, potentially becoming future leaders so that they, too, can impact change for the better within our community and the wider world.
Character Education
Our Character Education curriculum develops independent students who are aware and confident in keeping themselves healthy and safe, now and in the future. It prepares them for life beyond school by exploring current issues, promoting respectful relationships, and appreciating diverse worldviews, incorporating statutory guidance on Religious Education and PSHE.
PHSE
PSHE education is a vital part of the curriculum, dedicated to equipping students with the essential knowledge, understanding, skills, and attributes they need to manage their lives successfully, both now and in the future. It moves beyond traditional academic subjects to focus on personal development, well-being, and preparing young people for the challenges and opportunities of modern life. At its heart, PSHE aims to empower students to become healthy, safe, independent, and responsible members of society. We deliver PHSE through our Character Education, Life Skills and daily mentoring sessions.
Life Skills
Beyond academic knowledge, life skills are the practical abilities that empower individuals to navigate the complexities of everyday life successfully. These essential capabilities go beyond textbooks, equipping students with the tools they need to flourish personally, socially, and professionally. We cover topics such as taxes, finance, health and safety and...
Social Action
As part of our extensive personal development program and our commitment to both local and global communities, our students actively participate in social action projects throughout the year. We believe strongly in the power of giving back and aim to instil in every student the profound value and importance of contributing to a better world.
Whether it's a local litter pick to enhance our immediate environment, a visit to our local food bank to support those in need, or fundraising for charities that address broader issues, these projects offer invaluable opportunities.
Clubs and Extra-Curricular Activities
Participating in clubs and extracurricular activities offers significant benefits that extend beyond the classroom. These activities improve academic performance by teaching essential skills like time management and critical thinking. They also foster personal growth by boosting confidence, allowing individuals to explore new interests, and providing a healthy outlet for stress. Socially, these groups are excellent for building new friendships and developing key skills like communication and teamwork.
At EKC Sheppey Secondary, we offer a range of clubs and extra-curricular activities throughout Year 7 to 11. To find out more, please check our calendar.
Right to Withdraw
As laid out by the Department for Education, parents and carers have the right to withdraw their children from Sex Education, covered as part of the Personal Development curriculum. Parents may chose to withdraw their child from all parts of the Sex Education curriculum, or only some sections for example contraception. This is possible up to and until three terms before your child turns 16. After that point, if your child wishes to receive Sex Education rather than be withdrawn, the school will make arrangements to provide your child with Sex Education during one of these terms.
Parents and carers also have the right to request that their child is withdrawn from Religious Education. This, again, can be from part or all of the curriculum.
If you wish to withdraw your child from Sex Education or from Religious Education, this should be communicated to the Headteacher in writing. This is possible via the main school office.
There is no right to withdraw for Relationships Education or Health Education.