The Personal Development Curriculum [PDC] is the collective name given to the framework which aims to support all pupils’ personal and social development. It includes elements of Careers, Work Related Learning, PSHE, Citizenship, Enterprise and Financial Capability / Understanding. The programme is delivered through a variety of methods.

Currently all students in Y9 – Y11 have formal Careers lessons taught throughout the year on a carousel basis. The focus of these lessons is to highlight the importance of making ‘REALISTIC and INFORMED DECISIONS’ at the crucial transition points of their lives – at the end of Y9, after GCSEs and after A levels. It emphasises the importance of LIFELONG LEARNING – the idea that a person’s learning continues during their adult working life.

These Careers lessons are a central part of what has been described by the CEI at Warwick University, as the ‘outstanding’ Work Related Learning programme which also includes the CAREERS CONVENTION and WORK EXPERIENCE. Each February, the school holds what is believed to be one of the largest Careers Conventions held by a school in the country, with representatives from over 100 different individual firms, training agencies, and universities attending and giving advice.

All students are also offered the opportunity to experience ‘the world of work’ during a 1 or 2 week work experience placement which takes place during their KS4 studies. Students can either arrange their own placement or be given one from a bank of placements vetted by the local authority. Work Experience provides all students with a valuable insight to the type of ‘employability skills’ needed in the workplace today. It is also possible for some students to embark on an ‘extended’ work experience to help them gain employment when they leave school.

All students have access to a ‘Connexions’ Advisor who can provide support and advice on an individual basis and together, these help to explain why St. Mary’s has one of the highest rates in the authority for students finding training, work or education placements when they leave school.

Citizenship, PSHE, Enterprise and a better understanding of Personal Finance are delivered through the curriculum, but where this is not possible, special PDC lessons are held throughout the year. Here, students are given the opportunity to learn about important issues not normally covered in lessons, sometimes delivered by guest speakers. During the year the school also holds special weeks on such themes as ‘Anti-Bullying’, ‘Citizenship’, ‘Cultural Awareness’ and ‘Enterprise’

Further information is available from Mr. D. Philpot – Assistant Director of Learning.