The core of our values

All our pupils recognise that they are at Breckenbrough because they have had problems in mainstream education. Thus by showing a willingness to address their problems and to make progress all our pupils work to maintain their place and progress. Central to all our pupils problems is their lack of self worth and the difficulty that the majority have in appreciating the needs of others, thus building and maintaining positive relationships with peers and adults is difficult. Therefore underpinning all our work is the personal and social development of our pupils.

PSHE is therefore central to their success.

PSHE is also pivotal to the holistic way in which we deal with our pupils. Our most powerful and dramatic work is carried out using issues and situations that occur within school spontaneously including in the classroom on a daily basis. PSHE is an important element of the 24 hour curriculum. Throughout we reinforce the principle that all pupils have the right to be respected and the responsibility to show respect to others.

Within the ethos of the school PSHE contributes to the positive relaxed atmosphere helping to build openness, trust, honesty and tolerance and through the application of conflict resolution strategies. In all our dealings with pupils we are continually looking for ways in which we can encourage our pupils to increase their self-awareness and appreciation of others.

This process is ongoing but is also delivered formally in all subject areas. The outdoor education programme is important for developing essential social schools especially team building. Pupils attend one formal PSHE lesson a week where important issues are addressed. These include religious education, sex education, personal health and hygiene, drug and alcohol issues as well as career advice.