PSHE/P4C

Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) and Philosophy for Children (P4C)

At St. Lawrence College, we introduce both PSHE and P4C from the earliest opportunity.

In the Early Years, our youngest pupils begin to form new relationships while developing self-confidence, awareness, and independence. These foundations help them approach learning with assurance and growing autonomy. Throughout this stage, opportunities to build self-awareness and social skills are encouraged, preparing children for positive experiences throughout their schooling.

encouraging children to think deeply and critically

From the Early Years onwards, PSHE is taught weekly, with its values embedded across the wider curriculum. Lessons focus on themes such as family and relationships, health and well-being, safety, and citizenship. In this way, pupils are supported to develop the emotional and social skills that equip them for life both in and beyond the classroom.

P4C complements this process by encouraging children to think deeply and critically. It is an approach in which pupils learn to generate their own philosophical questions. Teachers — who have all received training in this area — act as facilitators, guiding children in their reasoning and questioning. Through an enquiry, based on structured dialogue, pupils learn to express their ideas clearly, to listen respectfully to others, and to respond thoughtfully within discussion.