|Citizenship
Since September 2002 all students have been studying the newest subject of the national curriculum – Citizenship. Citizenship education is all about helping young people to prepare for the complexities of the adult world through a programme of study which is delivered within a weekly one hour lesson as part of PSHCE (Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education) and also, potentially, within any lesson in the rest of the curriculum which overlaps with citizenship themes.
The programme of study requires the school to focus on the knowledge and understanding required to become informed citizens; legal and human rights and responsibilities underpinning society; the need for mutual respect and understanding in a diverse society; features of democracy; the work of voluntary groups; the importance of resolving conflict fairly; the significance of media in society; the world as a global community. For example, Year 7 students consider key ideas about living in a community through the idea of a group of people marooned on a desert island. Year 8 students examine perceptions of disability and young people and the law. Year 9 students study the media in society. In Year 10 and 11 consumer education and financial literacy are also part of the programme.
Through the study of such topics students further develop skills of enquiry and communication. Finally, all students are encouraged to develop skills of participation and responsible action through what is called active citizenship.
For example in December 2003 Year 11 students examined the case for and against the lowering of the voting age to 16 with the result (narrowly against) communicated to our local MP. All students are able to have an influence over the school as a community through Form and Year Councils. The full Student Council has Catering and Charity sub-committees. Charity work has enabled the school to develop strong links with the Jembatan street children project in Indonesia through links with a former head girl.
