Subject Overview

The aim of the Life and Culture curriculum is to allow students to explore important themes in a safe environment where they develop the knowledge and skills to thrive as safe, healthy, responsible individuals in both the school and the outside community. These skills will aid students to manage their lives now and in the future.  

Course Information

The Life and Culture curriculum covers: the statutory PSHE guidance which includes Relationship, Sex and Health Education; British Values Social; Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural (SMSC); and Religious Education. Topics are taught each term to cover these guidelines and content is relevant to age and current affairs. 

Within Life lessons, students learn about topics within: Health and Wellbeing, Living in the Wider World and Relationships.

Within Culture lessons, students answer “Big Questions” from one of the following themes: Philosophy, Theology or Human and Social Science. These weekly, 50-minute lessons provide students with an opportunity to take ownership of their thinking and learning, with time and space to consider key themes using discussion, real life examples and guidance from external providers and charities.  

Assessment

There are no examinations in Life and Culture, as this is not a formal qualification. The work completed in lessons supports learning in other subjects and life after Castle Manor Academy. Students’ work is assessed in a variety of ways each half term through in lesson activities as well as working towards a final effort and communication grade each term. 

Progression

Life and Culture gives students the foundations and skills to achieve their goals to become successful and responsible individuals within our community. It not only supports their current learning, but also develops students’ social and moral understanding, which can be transferrable to any career path in the future.  

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