At Airedale Academy, our personal development programme equips pupils with the knowledge, skills, and character they need to thrive in modern life, supporting them to grow into confident, responsible, and well-rounded individuals ready for life beyond school.
Our personal development programme is built around three complementary strands:
The Core Curriculum – Delivered through Life and Society lessons, which covers religious studies and key themes such as British Values, SMSC (Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural) development, Health and Wellbeing (including Relationships and Sex Education), protected characteristics, citizenship, PSHE, and careers (Gatsby Benchmarks). These themes are further supported through Wellbeing Wednesdays, which provide regular opportunities for discussion and reflection, and can also be adapted to respond to current issues or pupil need. Personal development is also woven throughout subject curricula across the academy.
The Enhanced Curriculum – Developed through assemblies, themed weeks, Personal Development Days, Future Fridays and contributions from guest speakers that promote reflection, celebrate diversity, and strengthen pupils’ understanding of the wider world.
Beyond the Curriculum – Learning continues outside the classroom through extracurricular clubs, leadership opportunities, trips, visits, and fundraising opportunities. Pupils are encouraged to explore new interests, develop their talents, and take responsibility within the academy and the wider community. Our cultural offer includes visits to theatres, galleries, museums, and other experiences that build awareness, confidence, and cultural capital.
Together, these strands ensure every pupil benefits from a rich, inclusive personal development experience that supports academic success, builds character, and prepares them for life in a changing world.