Secondary stages

Pupils in S1 and S2 should continue a planned, progressive programme of study that continues to develop the four areas within personal and social education. 

Self-awareness

By the end of S2, pupils should: 

• have developed attitudes of self-respect, through critical appreciation of self, by means of a personal profile
• have begun to make a realistic assessment of their abilities and aptitudes through experiential learning
• recognise that developing self-awareness can lead to increased self-control.     

Self-esteem

By the end of S2, pupils should: 

• understand the importance of valuing self, for example 'What's good about being a boy/girl?'
• demonstrate enterprise and initiative, for example as a member of the Pupil Council or an enterprise group
• see mistakes as opportunities for learning
• be confident to express their opinions and make decisions.     

Interpersonal relationships

By the end of S2, pupils should: 

• reflect on their own roles and those of others, for example in responding to peer pressure or bullying
• identify different relationships between sexes
• use knowledge, skills and attitudes acquired to make positive choices, be aware of the consequences of decisions, and foster tolerance.     

Independence and interdependence

By the end of S2, pupils should: 

• have increased problem-solving skills
• be able to initiate, organise and complete tasks involving others, for example an enterprise project
• set and review personal goals
• help others to achieve their goals
• take increasing responsibility for self-discipline.     

Beyond S2, Higher Still units in Social and Vocational Awareness offer varied means of continuing a progressive PSE programme of study. Some of the unit areas covered are: 

• personal hygiene
• daily organisation
• sampling work
• healthy living
• personal presentation for everyday living
• participating in leisure time activities
• work experience
• participating in a community activity.