At Carr Lane, we believe that children flourish when they feel safe, valued and understood. Wellbeing sits at the heart of school life. When children feel secure and confident, they are able to learn well, build strong relationships and develop a positive sense of who they are.

Our approach to personal development runs through everything we do, in lessons, in assemblies, in leadership opportunities and in the daily interactions that shape our school community.

Growing in Confidence and Understanding

Through our PSHE and Relationships curriculum (Jigsaw), children learn about friendships, families, health, emotions and staying safe — both online and offline. Lessons are carefully planned and age-appropriate, giving children the knowledge and language they need to understand themselves and others.

We work alongside the school nursing team and use additional resources where appropriate to ensure children receive clear, accurate guidance as they grow older.

Assemblies and Religion and World Views lessons provide opportunities for reflection and discussion. Children learn about different beliefs, cultures and backgrounds and develop an understanding of respect, fairness and inclusion. These values are reinforced daily through our behaviour policy and the way we treat one another.

Feeling Safe, Supported and Heard

We are committed to making sure every child knows there is someone they can talk to.

We have a trained Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA), staff trained in therapeutic approaches including Drawing and Talking, and two trained Senior Mental Health Leads. Another member of staff is currently completing ELSA training. This ensures that emotional support is readily available within school.

We also work closely with external agencies who provide additional support for children and families when needed. Our Family Links Co-ordinator and the school nursing team help us respond quickly and effectively to emerging needs.

Children are confident in approaching adults, and support is carefully planned and reviewed so that it makes a real difference.

Broadening Experiences

Personal development also means helping children discover their strengths and interests.

Pupils take part in sports teams, cross country events, swimming galas and Panathlon competitions. They perform in concerts, join choir and ukulele club, take part in RockSteady bands and work with visiting artists during Art Week.

Community links are important to us. Children attend Harvest Festival and Christmas services, take part in Remembrance assemblies, support local initiatives such as the Reverse Advent Calendar and contribute to fundraising events.

We carefully track participation to ensure all children are included. Pupil Premium funding supports access to trips, residential visits, clubs, sports and music lessons so that no child misses out because of financial circumstances.

Preparing for the Future

We support children to look beyond primary school and think about their future.

Pupils meet visitors from industry, take part in Children Challenging Industry and explore links to careers through foundation subjects. Year 6 pupils apply and interview for leadership roles and run enterprise stalls at school fairs, learning about teamwork, responsibility and budgeting.

Strong links with our feeder secondary school help ensure pupils feel confident and well prepared for the next stage of their education.

An Inclusive Community

Our Enhanced Resource Provision enables children with additional needs to thrive within a mainstream setting. Staff receive ongoing specialist training to ensure inclusive practice across school.

Our free breakfast club, attended by around 80 children each day, provides a positive start to the morning and supports both wellbeing and family life.

At Carr Lane, personal development is about helping every child feel secure, capable and proud of who they are becoming. We aim for our pupils to leave us not only ready for secondary school, but ready for life. Resilient, respectful and confident in their place in the world.