Head of Faculty: Mr B Sidebottom

Teacher of EPC: Miss R Barnes

Teacher of EPC: Mrs T Hunt

Teacher of EPC: Mrs M Purdie

Teacher of EPC: Mr G Whiteman

We believe that students deserve a broad and ambitious EPC curriculum, rich in skills and knowledge, which ignites curiosity and prepares them well for future learning or employment. At Serlby Park Academy we pride ourselves on providing a rich personal development curriculum which enables our students to develop into well rounded members of society.

Year 7:

Half Term 1 – Building Foundations

In the first half term, students focus on building strong personal and social foundations as they settle into secondary school. Lessons explore how to form healthy friendships, stay safe online and offline and cope with challenges such as bullying and peer pressure. This unit also supports students in developing emotional resilience, managing conflict and understanding the importance of respect in all relationships.

Half Term 2 – Health & Wellbeing

This term centres on physical and emotional health during adolescence. Pupils learn about the changes that occur during puberty, the importance of personal hygiene and sleep and how to maintain a balanced lifestyle. The curriculum also covers healthy relationships and consent, substance awareness and vital first aid skills to help students make informed, safe choices.

Half Term 3 – Community & Responsibility

Students are encouraged to look beyond themselves and consider their role in the wider community. Topics include how to engage with and support local communities, the importance of recycling and sustainability and recognising different forms of abuse. Pupils also develop strategies for managing stress and explore global topics such as migration and the experiences of refugees.

Half Term 4 – Society & Rights

This term introduces key themes around identity, fairness and equality. Students examine British values, human rights, the rule of law and how to challenge discrimination/stereotypes. They are also encouraged to think critically about issues such as animal rights and global sustainability and their role in promoting a more inclusive and ethical society.

Half Term 5 – Philosophical Issues

Students begin to explore big philosophical and moral questions in a respectful and open-minded environment. Topics include beliefs about God and life after death, the concept of forgiveness and how mutual respect can help challenge extremism and intolerance. These lessons promote thoughtful discussion, tolerance and deeper personal reflection.

Half Term 6 – Aspirations

The final term focuses on students’ futures, helping them identify their strengths, set goals and explore different career paths. Lessons include financial literacy, work-life balance, and the importance of making healthy, responsible life choices. Pupils also reflect on their identity, culture and how they can contribute positively to society as young citizens.

Year 8:

Half Term 1 – Healthy Relationships

In this half term, students deepen their understanding of what makes relationships safe, respectful and supportive. They explore boundaries, consent, and the importance of healthy friendships, while learning how to recognise signs of unsafe or exploitative behaviour, including online grooming. Lessons also focus on managing conflict and communication effectively, as well as understanding individual rights and responsibilities in all types of relationships.

Half Term 2 – Multiculturalism

This term introduces students to a broad range of worldviews and belief systems, helping to promote understanding, tolerance and respect. Pupils explore the core teachings and values of major world religions including Christianity, Islam, Sikhism, Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism, as well as Humanism. These lessons help students appreciate the role belief systems play in shaping identity, ethics and culture in the UK and beyond.

Half Term 3 – Diversity & Inclusion

In this half term, students examine issues related to identity, equality and inclusion. Topics include LGBTQIA+ awareness, gender identity, racism, disability rights and cultural understanding. Lessons also cover privilege, hate crime laws and how students can be allies in promoting a more inclusive society. The aim is to empower pupils to challenge prejudice and support diverse communities.

Half Term 4 – Society & Global Issues

Students develop awareness of key social issues affecting the UK and the wider world. Topics include homelessness, youth crime, gang culture and the role of the criminal justice system. Pupils also explore the power of charities, activism, and social action in addressing global challenges and consider how they can contribute to positive change in society.

Half Term 5 – Mind & Body

This unit focuses on health, wellbeing and self-image. Students learn about nutrition, lifestyle choices and how to take care of both their physical and mental health. Topics include body positivity, managing stress and anxiety, accessing support systems, and the risks associated with drug use and vaping. The aim is to help pupils build healthy habits and resilience.

Half Term 6 – UK Politics & Law

In the final term, students explore how the UK is governed and the role of citizens in a democracy. Lessons explain the difference between government and parliament, how elections work and what MPs and devolved governments do. Pupils also learn about political rights over time, protests and how pressure groups influence change. The term ends with a focus on the justice system and the differences between criminal and civil law.

Year 9:

Half Term 1 – Modern Challenges

This term focuses on navigating modern life and digital citizenship. Students will learn about the dangers of indecent images, oversharing on social media and the influence of online personalities. Topics include vaccinations, maintaining safe family relationships, recognizing coercive control and understanding sexual harassment, all aimed at promoting safety, respect and informed decision making in the digital age.

Half Term 2 – Staying Safe

Students will focus on personal safety and health. Topics include sexual health, alcohol and drug risks and the importance of sleep, diet, and exercise. The curriculum covers safety in relationships, recognizing harmful behaviours and managing digital wellbeing. Students will also learn essential first aid skills for emergency situations, helping them make informed and responsible choices for their wellbeing.

Half Term 3 – Prejudice and Discrimination

This term explores issues of prejudice, discrimination and mental health. Students will examine how religion is portrayed in the media, strategies for stress management and personal safety. Topics like sexual exploitation and eating disorders raise awareness about harmful behaviours, while encouraging students to develop empathy, inclusivity and critical thinking about societal challenges.

Half Term 4 – Ambitions

Focusing on future aspirations, this term covers career choices, educational pathways and workplace rights. Students will explore labour market information, volunteering and work experience, as well as apprenticeships vs. further education. Global career opportunities, working abroad and leadership skills will also be discussed, helping students prepare for their future roles in society.

Half Term 5 – Ethics in Action

Students will engage with ethical dilemmas, such as organ donation, the fairness of the justice system and genetic engineering. The term also covers conservation efforts and ethical consumerism, encouraging students to reflect on how their decisions impact society and the environment, promoting moral decision-making and social responsibility.

Half Term 6 – Social Justice

This term explores global issues like human rights, inequality and climate change. Students will learn about global citizenship, the role of international organizations, and the challenges of migration and refugees. The focus will be on combating discrimination and promoting equality, encouraging students to become active participants in social change and justice.

Year 10:

Half Term 1 – Human Values

This term focuses on understanding healthy relationships, including consent, boundaries and sexual health. Students will explore topics such as abusive relationships, contraception, pregnancy choices and parenthood. The impact of pornography on relationships will be discussed, along with LGBTQ+ identities and inclusion. Racism, prejudice and discrimination are also key topics, encouraging students to reflect on human rights and respect for diversity.

Half Term 2 – Relationships

Students will delve into sensitive topics like forced marriage, breast ironing and child brides, alongside rites of passage in different cultures. The curriculum will cover the sexualisation of media, trans identity and issues such as revenge porn and domestic abuse. Topics around pregnancy, infertility, and adoption will also be explored to help students understand the complexities of relationships and family life.

Half Term 3 – Personal Health

This term addresses personal and mental health, with a focus on social anxiety, bereavement, and addiction. Students will learn vital first aid and life-saving skills and explore how personal and lifestyle choices impact their well-being. Euthanasia will also be discussed, encouraging students to think critically about moral dilemmas in health and end-of-life care.

Half Term 4 – Money Matters

Students will gain practical financial knowledge, including taxes, government roles and budgeting. The term covers understanding loans, debt and credit scores, as well as the pros and cons of renting vs. buying. Students will also develop essential career skills such as CV writing and interview techniques, preparing them for the world of work and financial independence.

Half Term 5 – British Values

This term explores key elements of British society, including parliamentary democracy, the judiciary, and the free press. Students will learn about multiculturalism and how British values intersect with religion, encouraging them to reflect on what it means to live in a diverse society and the importance of civic responsibility.

Half Term 6 – Overcoming Barriers

The final term helps students develop personal and professional skills to overcome challenges. Topics include conflict resolution, assertiveness, public speaking and building confidence. Students will explore the importance of freedom of speech, censorship, and the impact of social media. The role of technology in society and future aspirations will also be discussed, encouraging students to reflect on their personal goals and the societal barriers they may face.