Personal Development at Ashbourne Primary School

At Ashbourne Primary School, personal development is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to ensuring that all pupils develop the confidence, character and skills they need to succeed in school and in life beyond.

Our approach supports pupils to grow not only in what they know, but in who they become.

We believe that all children should feel safe, valued and included, and have access to a wide range of opportunities that broaden their experiences and raise their aspirations.

We aim to ensure that all pupils:

• Develop confidence, resilience and independence
• Build positive relationships and respect for others
• Understand how to keep themselves physically and mentally healthy
• Experience the wider world beyond their immediate environment
• Develop aspirations and believe in their future
• Become responsible, respectful and active members of society

Personal development is woven throughout school life and is not taught in isolation. It is developed through:

 Curriculum

Through our curriculum, pupils learn about:

• Relationships, health and wellbeing (PSHE)
• Diversity, equality and respect
• Online safety and responsible use of technology
• British values and life in modern Britain

These areas are carefully planned to ensure progression and relevance to pupils’ lives.

Wider Opportunities

Pupils benefit from a wide range of experiences beyond the classroom, including:

• Educational visits and residential trips
• Clubs, sport and enrichment activities
• Music, performance and creative opportunities

These experiences help pupils to develop confidence, independence and a sense of achievement.

Leadership and Responsibility

Pupils are given opportunities to take on leadership roles, such as:

• School Councillors 
• Reception Buddies
• Peer Buddies
• Eco-Councillors 
• PRAISE pupils 

These roles help pupils to develop responsibility, confidence and pride in contributing to school life.

Wellbeing and Support

We place a strong emphasis on wellbeing, ensuring that all pupils feel safe, supported and ready to learn. We recognise that pupils’ emotional wellbeing is fundamental to their success in school and beyond.

Our approach is proactive and carefully structured, providing consistent support for all pupils. This includes:

• A dedicated pastoral support team, providing targeted support for pupils and families
• The use of Zones of Regulation to help pupils understand, manage and regulate their emotions
• Forest Friends sessions, offering opportunities for outdoor learning, reflection and emotional development
• High-quality OPAL play, supporting social development, independence and positive play experiences
• Clear routines and consistent expectations that help pupils feel secure and confident
• Strong, positive relationships between staff and pupils, underpinned by a trauma-informed approach
• Additional support for behaviour and self-regulation, helping pupils to understand their emotions and make positive choices

Through this approach, pupils develop the skills to manage their emotions, build resilience and engage positively with learning and school life.

Linked to Our Golden Threads

Our approach to personal development is closely aligned with our Golden Threads:

• Language and Literacy – pupils develop the confidence and emotional literacy to communicate, express themselves and engage with others
• Resilience and Regulation – pupils learn to manage emotions, build confidence and persevere through challenges
• Belonging and Becoming – pupils feel safe, included and valued, developing a strong sense of identity and aspiration

 ‘Excellent Effort Always Matters’

Our motto underpins all aspects of personal development.

We encourage pupils to:

• Try their best
• Keep going when things are challenging
• Take pride in their achievements

By valuing effort, we support pupils to develop confidence, resilience and a positive approach to learning and life.

 

Through our personal development provision, pupils:

• Are confident, resilient and independent learners
• Show respect for others and understand diversity
• Take pride in their achievements and their school
• Engage positively in school life and wider opportunities
• Understand how to keep themselves safe and healthy
• Are well prepared for the next stage of their education

Pupils leave Ashbourne Primary as well-rounded individuals, ready to succeed in school and in the wider world.

Take a look at our comprehensive personal development offer below.