Personal Development

Aim: That pupils grow in confidence, resilience and responsibility

At Halwin School, we are proud to welcome every child and family to our brilliant school. Personal development is at the heart of what we do. We help children grow in confidence and resilience, drawing on experiences and lessons from the past to prepare them for the opportunities and challenges of the future. Through self-awareness and reflection, we foster individuals who are ready to adapt, lead, and contribute positively to society.

We place high importance on developing the whole child, ensuring pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development (SMSC) is carefully woven throughout our curriculum. Supporting children’s emotional health and wellbeing is central to our role: we have trained staff in emotional first aid, designated safeguarding leads who provide targeted support, and weekly input from a Primary Mental Health Support Worker.

Our curriculum provides opportunities for pupils to explore social justice, responsibility, and positive contribution. The Halwin Way – Ready, Respectful, Safe – underpins behaviour and character development, helping pupils understand and follow the British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance.

Through assemblies, Lyfta time, PSHE lessons, literature, and visits, pupils learn about the diversity of people and communities, both locally and globally. The Kapow PSHE scheme and Digital Learning Cornwall computing scheme ensure sequential and progressive learning in relationships, health, citizenship, and online safety. Pupils learn to share their views, respect the perspectives of others, and develop curiosity about the world around them.

Children take on progressive leadership roles – from class monitors to Play Leaders, Eco Warriors, and School Councillors – becoming active citizens within our school and the wider community.

We offer a wide range of extra-curricular clubs, accessible to all children, with particularly strong uptake among disadvantaged and SEND pupils. Residential visits in Years 5 and 6 broaden horizons, offering rich cultural and social experiences beyond Cornwall. Trips and visits across year groups inspire awe, wonder, and ambition.

At Halwin, we know our children and families well. Staff are vigilant in identifying need and proactive in offering support, whether through in-school provision or signposting to external services. Our strong pastoral approach ensures that every child feels supported, safe, and ready to thrive.

You can view a summary of our personal development offer below, showing just some of the opportunities and experiences available to Halwin pupils.