Year 8 pupils recently took part in an engaging and thought-provoking ‘Safe & Sound’ programme delivered by Loudmouth Education & Training as part of our Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education programme.

Through live drama and an interactive workshop, pupils explored the story of a young couple and considered how relationships can change over time. The performance encouraged pupils to spot the difference between healthy and unhealthy behaviours and think carefully about what respect, trust and consent look like in a relationship.

Throughout the session, pupils explored important issues including healthy boundaries, privacy and consent, power and control, coercive behaviour and relationship abuse. They also considered the pressures and risks associated with sharing intimate images and, importantly, where they can turn for help if they are worried about themselves or somebody else.

The session gave pupils a safe and age-appropriate opportunity to discuss some challenging but important issues, ask questions and develop their understanding of what a positive and respectful relationship should look like.

‘Safe & Sound’ forms part of our wider Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) curriculum and supports our commitment to equipping pupils with the knowledge and confidence they need to keep themselves and others safe.

At Dame Elizabeth Cadbury School, Personal Development is about preparing pupils for life beyond the classroom. Experiences such as this help our young people to recognise when something is not right, make informed choices and know how to access trusted support when they need it.