A preliminary report exploring the need for and development of a coherent Personal and Social Education curriculum

Introduction and Executive Summary

This report aims to give an overview of the reasons why children and young people in UK schools need a coherent, personal and social education curriculum. This is followed by the mapping of a range of recommendations which would support its development. In brief, the report states the following:

• A lack of clarity regarding the status of personal and social education in the curriculum has resulted in inconsistency in its delivery and has undermined the establishment of a cohesive professional network of teachers and health and social care professionals.

• Simultaneously, there is evidence that our young people are not being adequately supported to make the life choices that will enhance their wellbeing and life chances.

• Effective education of children and young people in personal and social matters presents a complex challenge and needs to address the value that the learners themselves place on the relevance of the content of the teaching and the frankness with which it is delivered as well as numerous age - and context-specific determinants of their decision-making and behaviour.

• Given the above, there is a clear need for a review that would comprehensively address the aims, content, delivery and training requirements of this subject.

• This review would best be achieved through the establishment of expert and reference groups, co-ordinated by a body which is well-placed in the sector and appropriately experienced.