Personal, Social, and Health Education (PSHE) is more than just a subject. It is a cornerstone of student well-being and development. Schools are responsible for preparing young people not only for academic success but for the challenges of life beyond the classroom. From building emotional resilience to understanding relationships, digital literacy, and mental health, PSHE plays a vital role in shaping responsible, well-rounded individuals.
Yet, for many educators, delivering PSHE effectively can be complex. How do you engage older students in meaningful discussions? How do you approach sensitive topics such as substance misuse, bullying, or media influence with confidence? Addressing these challenges requires thoughtful teaching strategies and expert guidance.
Engaging Students in PSHE Lessons
One of the biggest hurdles in PSHE is capturing student interest, particularly in secondary education. As students grow older, they may view PSHE as just another scheduled lesson rather than an opportunity for personal growth.
According to John Rees, a nationally recognised PSHE education expert, engagement hinges on making lessons interactive, relevant, and student driven. “When students can apply learning to their own experiences, they engage. When they can safely explore real-life dilemmas, they develop essential life skills,” he explains.
Rees emphasises the importance of role-playing, real-world scenarios, and discussion-based learning. These methods allow students to navigate social and emotional challenges in a safe and structured environment, ensuring that PSHE is not just theoretical but practical and impactful.
PSHE’s Role in Media Literacy and Violence Prevention
In today’s digital world, young people are constantly influenced by media—whether through advertising, social platforms, or entertainment. Without proper guidance, they may struggle to critically analyse content, leading to unrealistic expectations, misinformation, or harmful stereotypes.
PSHE education plays a key role in developing media literacy skills, helping students understand the impact of digital content on their mental health, self-image, and relationships. Teaching them to question and assess online narratives empowers them to make informed, responsible choices.
Beyond media influence, PSHE is also crucial in violence prevention and promoting healthy relationships. Conversations around consent, respect, and equality are essential in fostering a culture where young people understand personal boundaries and social responsibility. When handled effectively, these discussions equip students with the tools to challenge harmful behaviours and contribute to a safer, more inclusive school environment.
John Rees: A Leading Voice in PSHE Education
With over 20 years of experience in education, John Rees has become a leading figure in PSHE training and pastoral leadership. His expertise lies in helping schools create inclusive, engaging, and effective PSHE programmes that equip students with essential life skills.
John has worked extensively with schools across the UK, supporting educators in delivering high-quality, student-centered PSHE lessons. His practical training sessions provide teachers with strategies to navigate topics such as mental health, digital safety, substance misuse, and personal resilience with confidence.
By focusing on real-world applications rather than generic curriculum delivery, John ensures that PSHE is meaningful, relatable, and impactful for students and educators alike.
How JMC INSET Supports PSHE Educators
For teachers seeking to improve their PSHE delivery, JMC INSET offers specialist training designed to address the real-world challenges of teaching this subject. Led by experienced educators like John Rees, JMC’s PSHE training focuses on:
✔ Engaging and adaptive teaching strategies – Learn how to create dynamic, interactive lessons that keep students involved.
✔ Handling sensitive topics with confidence – Develop the skills to facilitate discussions on mental health, consent, and social issues in a supportive way.
✔ Creating an inclusive and safe learning environment – Ensure that every student feels valued, respected, and heard in PSHE discussions.
✔ Developing digital and media literacy – Equip students with the ability to critically assess online content and recognise harmful influences.
JMC’s PSHE-focused INSET sessions provide educators with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to deliver impactful lessons that genuinely resonate with students.
Take the Next Step: Strengthen Your School’s PSHE Curriculum
PSHE is not just another subject—it is an essential part of shaping well-informed, resilient, and socially responsible young people. Schools that invest in high-quality PSHE training empower their educators to deliver lessons that leave a lasting impact.
Looking to enhance your school’s PSHE curriculum? Get in touch with JMC INSET today to explore expert-led training that will transform the way PSHE is taught in your classrooms. Let’s work together to create a learning environment where students can grow, thrive, and make informed choices for their future.
