Fairfax first aid workshop: Students at Fairfax Academy learned life‑saving skills during a visit from Young Responders at St John Ambulance.
Across multiple year groups, students practised CPR and learned how to apply a tourniquet using training dummies, before being taught to respond to an alcohol or vape‑spiking incident.
It’s just one of many powerful examples of how the PSHE curriculum is preparing young people for life beyond school.
Head of PSHE and Equity, Ms Hau, said students went home eager to share what they had learned.
She said: “They were proud of the new responsibilities they could take on. These moments epitomise what PSHE is about: learning that genuinely empowers students beyond the classroom.”
The programme has also included sessions on financial literacy, as well as activities linked to Pride Month, Eid al‑Adha, National Clean Air Day and Nelson Mandela International Day.
Ms Hau added: “These ensure pupils engage with the wider world, develop cultural understanding and reflect on equity, values and global responsibility.
“There are also positive signs of growing momentum, with an increase in merits earned by Year 7 and Year 8 – a strong indicator of rising engagement.”
Fairfax Academy is also using Peerscroller – an innovative video-based PSHE app – to create relaxed, student‑led conversations about lived experiences, representation and school culture.
This will help pupils feel more comfortable speaking openly about the things that matter to them during tutor time.
Ms Hau said: “PSHE at present is not just a subject; it is a lived experience across the school.
“From first aid skills to financial confidence, from student voice to the celebration of diversity, PSHE is empowering students with the knowledge, values and skills they need to thrive.
“We are proud of the journey so far and excited for what comes next.”