Personal Development

Our Personal Development curriculum is a core driver of pupils’ personal growth, wellbeing, and preparedness for life in modern Britain.

It is ambitious, inclusive, and carefully sequenced, ensuring all pupils progressively develop the knowledge, skills, and attributes needed to make informed choices and succeed beyond school.

We aim to support pupils to become confident, responsible and well-rounded young individuals as they move through the school on their five-year journey with us.

Developing the whole child.
The Academy’s shared personal RESPECT values.

By the end of their time at BCA, pupils are resilient, and well-prepared for adulthood, employment, and active citizenship, equipped with the personal RESPECT values and practical life skills to contribute positively to society.

Shared Values

Shared Values

The Curriculum

Personal Development is delivered through; PSHE education, Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE), assemblies, tutor time, enrichment activities and the wider life of the school.

The graphic below illustrates the range of contributing aspects of Personal Development here at BCA.

Personal Development is the Golden Thread of our curriculum

We support pupils to:

  • Develop strong moral values, empathy and respect for others
  • Understand how to keep themselves physically and mentally healthy
  • Build resilience, confidence and independence
  • Make informed choices about relationships, lifestyle and future pathways
  • Understand their rights and responsibilities as active citizens
  • Respect diversity and promote equality, inclusion and tolerance

Form Time

**LEARN = Look & Listen, Engage, Ambitious Vocabulary, Respect, Never Give Up. 

** RESPECT = Resilience, Empathy, Self-Awareness, Positivity, Excellence, Communication, Tolerance

* Standards check = uniform and equipment check will be conducted at the start of each tutor session.

Enrichment

Education extends far beyond the classroom.

Enrichment lies at the heart of a well-rounded education, offering students opportunities to grow academically, socially, creatively and personally.

Participation in enrichment strengthens essential personal attributes such as resilience, teamwork and self-confidence.

A wide enrichment offer helps students find areas of interest that energise and motivate them.

Engagement in activities outside of core lessons can:

  • Increase enjoyment of school life
  • Support mental and physical wellbeing
  • Encourage positive relationships across year groups

We actively promote a culture in which every student feels able to explore their interests and talents. Activities in art, music, drama, culture and service bring students together, build community pride and enrich school life.

Student Leadership

Student leaders play an important role in the life and culture of BCA. They provide a structured way for students to contribute to decision-making, represent their peers, and develop leadership skills. Our leaders are promoted to strengthen student engagement and enhance school culture.

Typically, student leaders are involved in the following areas:

Student Voice and Representation

Student leaders act as a link between students and staff, gathering feedback, raising concerns, and contributing ideas through leadership meetings.

Peer Support and Mentoring

Promote positive behaviour and help create an inclusive school environment.

Promoting School Values and Culture

Student leaders model expected behaviours, uphold our BCA’s shared RESPECT values and contribute to maintaining high standards around conduct, uniform, and community ethos.

Events, Enrichment, and Community Engagement

Student leaders help to organise school events, assemblies, charity fundraising and transition activities.

Developing Leadership Skills

Through RESPECT training and responsibility, student leaders develop confidence, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, supporting their personal development and future pathways.

More Information

Latest News