Personal Development Leadership
- Ms M Corrigan – Vice Principal – Student Welfare
- Ms L Amos – Associate Assistant Principal – Personal Development
- Ms K Buttery – Deputy DSL – Mental Health Lead
Landau Forte Amington’s Wellbeing and Personal Development curriculum is designed to ensure that student mental health and wellbeing, PSHE (Physical, Social, Health Education), and RSE (Relationships and Sex Education) are afforded the time and importance needed to ensure safe and healthy learning opportunities for all students. This is targeted through Personal Tutor time, assemblies, PSHE lessons and the wider curriculum.
The senior leadership team understand the importance of student and staff wellbeing and mental health, recognising the impact on both academic and personal success. Our academy believes success is built on a base of resilience, self-confidence, social and personal awareness and emotional intelligence. To support this we have invested in a dedicated mental health lead, an academy counsellor and a child and family worker to support students and families.
Our personal development and wellbeing offer is driven by a robust curriculum framework to develop students as good people, productive citizens and upstanding members of our community. Our core values of being ambitious, brave and kind are at the heart of all we do and are captured in the Amington Offer. The Amington Offer is a range of activities, experiences and interactions to develop students beyond the classroom. The Amington Offer, which is our commitment to every student, can be found below.
PSHE
PSHE at Landau Forte Academy Amington, equips all students with key skills and knowledge that will support them throughout their lives. Students will develop age appropriate understanding relating to three key areas: healthy relationships, health and wellbeing, and living in the wider world. The curriculum has been developed in line with the Relationships, Sex and Health Education government statutory guidance (2020), the citizenship national curriculum and the PSHE Association.
The curriculum will support the safeguarding of students. They will explore issues including sexual consent, domestic violence and abuse, and mental health, to ensure they can safeguard themselves and protect their emotional wellbeing. This has been developed to an age appropriate manner. Alongside this, personal tutor times, assemblies, workshops and personal development days across the year provide opportunities for students to reflect on contemporary issues that they may face including county lines, radicalisation and knife crime.
The PSHE provision aims to:
- Develop students’ confidence in sharing their own thoughts and opinions
- Develop skills and attributes to keep themselves healthy and safe
- Develop an attitude of a responsible and considerate global citizen
- Build positive, respectful relationships with other people
- Equip students with the skills to support them during life’s challenges.
RSE
Landau Forte Academy Amington recognises the importance that RSE can play in contributing to the development of healthy young people and our provision is designed to ensure that our pupils have access to all the teaching and resources that are required to enable them to make prudent judgements about relationships and sex. RSE is part of our PSHCE curriculum.
The Definition of RSE
RSE is “lifelong learning about physical, moral and emotional development. It is about the understanding of the importance of marriage and family life, stable and loving relationships, respect, love and care. It is about the teaching of sex, sexuality and sexual health.” (RSE Guidance, DfE 0116/2000, para. 9 page 5) It is also about the development of the pupil’s knowledge and understanding of himself/herself as a sexual being, about what it means to be fully human, called to live in a right relationship with oneself, others and being enabled to make moral decisions according to an informed conscience.
The academy will endeavour to deliver relationship and sex education within a moral and values based framework. This will be done through:
- Promotion of committed relationships and the value of family life
- Teaching self-respect, dignity, self‐restraint and respect for others
- Promotion of tolerance of all types of relationships, religions and personal views
- Encourage students to reflect on their own relationships in order to develop an understanding of themselves
- Ensure that students appreciate the benefits of stable married life and the responsibilities of parenthood.
- Help students to recognise the physical, emotional and moral risks of casual and promiscuous sexual behaviour
- Present biological facts in an objective and balanced manner and to use appropriate terminology to enable students to discuss issues without embarrassment or fear of ridicule.
- Develop an awareness of an individual’s legal responsibilities in relation to sexual behaviour.
- Ensure other models of family and relationships are recognised and understood.
- Regular reviewing of the RSE programme to ensure it meets the needs of students
Information for Families
Right to Withdraw
As detailed in the academy RSE policy, families have the right to request that their child be withdrawn from some or all of sex education delivered as part of statutory RSE. Sex education is currently delivered in:
- Year 7 Term 5 – Building Relationships
- Year 8 Term 5 – Identity and Relationships
- Year 9 Term 3 Respectful Relationships
- Year 9 Term 5 – Intimate Relationships
- Year 10 Term 3 – Healthy Relationships
- Year 11 Term 3 – Communication in Relationships
If you wish to withdraw your child from some or all sex-education lessons, we would urge you, in the first instance, to discuss this with the school directly. You are welcome to view resources, ask questions about topics covered and discuss anything else that might be a concern. We understand that this can be a sensitive topic, but often a chance to talk through concerns can help to allay any worries you may have. Lessons are delivered in a professional, inclusive, objective and sensitive manner with the aim of educating students so that they can make informed decisions and stay safe. If you wish to withdraw your child, you should contact the academy directly.
Please be aware that parents have no right to request their child be withdrawn from lessons on relationships or health education which are statutory.
Up to and until three terms before the child turns 16, a parent retains the right to request withdrawal from sex education. After that point, if a child wishes to receive sex education rather than be withdrawn, the school will make arrangements to provide the child with sex education during one of those terms.
Citizenship
Citizenship education plays a crucial role in shaping informed, responsible, and active members of society. It equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to understand their rights, duties, and the functioning of democratic processes. In schools, citizenship fosters critical thinking, social responsibility, and civic engagement.
By learning about government structures, laws, and human rights, students develop an awareness of how society operates and their role within it. Schools also provide a safe environment for students to explore diverse perspectives, encouraging tolerance, respect, and empathy for others. Through discussions, debates, and active participation in school governance, young people practice the values of democracy and community involvement.
Citizenship education promotes active participation in local and global issues, from environmental concerns to social justice. This helps students realize they have the power to influence change, preparing them for adult life where they contribute positively to society. As a result, citizenship education is essential for building a more just, inclusive, and engaged community.
Citizenship takes place as part of our Personal Tutor Time Programme.
SMSC
SMSC stands for Spiritual, Moral, Social, and Cultural development. It is a key aspect of education in the UK. Essentially, SMSC is about helping students develop a range of personal and social skills that will enable them to become well-rounded, responsible, and engaged members of society.
The experiences that enrich a students’ SMSC capital can also increase their personal wellbeing. At LANDUA FORTE ACADEMY AMINGTON we strive to develop students holistically, as citizens ready to go out into the real world equipped with the life skills a good SMSC aspect to their education will bring.
SMSC engagement is developed by: Promoting racial, religious and other forms of equality; recognising and celebrating the different cultures represented in the school and wider community; participating in and responding positively to artistic, musical, sporting and cultural opportunities.
At Landau Forte Academy Amington there are many opportunities to develop spiritually, morally, socially and culturally. Examples of where this is experienced in Landau Forte Academy Amington are:
- Assemblies on Safeguarding and British Values and other “raising awareness” assemblies
- Charity work
- Diversity week
- Events and trips: for example, to theatres
- Extracurricular activities across the curriculum
- Visiting speakers
- LGBT club
- Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme
- Culture festival in the Summer
- Learning about Protected Characteristics
- Student voice and the Student Leadership Team
- House captains
- Work experience
- Sports fixtures
- Rewards and awards, and Pupil Passport
For students in schools:
The spiritual development of pupils is shown by their:
- ability to be reflective about their own beliefs (religious or otherwise) and perspective on life
- knowledge of, and respect for, different people’s faiths, feelings and values
- sense of enjoyment and fascination in learning about themselves, others and the world around them
- use of imagination and creativity in their learning
- willingness to reflect on their experiences
The moral development of pupils is shown by their:
- ability to recognise the difference between right and wrong and to readily apply this understanding in their own lives, recognise legal boundaries and, in so doing, respect the civil and criminal law of England
- understanding of the consequences of their behaviour and actions
- interest in investigating and offering reasoned views about moral and ethical issues and ability to understand and appreciate the viewpoints of others on these issues
The social development of pupils is shown by their:
- use of a range of social skills in different contexts, for example working and socialising with other pupils, including those from different religious, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds
- willingness to participate in a variety of communities and social settings, including by volunteering, cooperating well with others and being able to resolve conflicts effectively
- acceptance and engagement with the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs; they develop and demonstrate skills and attitudes that will allow them to participate fully in and contribute positively to life in modern Britain
The cultural development of pupils is shown by their:
- understanding and appreciation of the wide range of cultural influences that have shaped their own heritage and that of others
- understanding and appreciation of the range of different cultures in the school and further afield as an essential element of their preparation for life in modern Britain
- ability to recognise, and value, the things we share in common across
cultural, religious, ethnic and socio-economic communities - knowledge of Britain’s democratic parliamentary system and its central role in shaping our history and values, and in continuing to develop Britain
- willingness to participate in and respond positively to artistic, musical, sporting and cultural opportunities
- interest in exploring, improving understanding of and showing respect for different faiths and cultural diversity and the extent to which they understand, accept and respect diversity. This is shown by their respect and attitudes towards different religious, ethnic and socio-economic groups in the local, national and global communities
Cultural Capital
Cultural capital refers to the knowledge, experiences, and skills that students bring with them, which can enhance their educational success. In schools, fostering cultural capital is crucial as it helps students access and engage with the curriculum, broadening their horizons and increasing their chances of success.
We play a key role in expanding students’ cultural capital by exposing them to literature, arts, history, and diverse cultural experiences. This not only enriches their understanding of the world but also equips them with the social and intellectual tools needed for future opportunities.
Cultural capital promotes confidence, curiosity, and aspiration, helping students better navigate society. By valuing and building on each student’s background, schools ensure all learners can thrive, regardless of their starting point, contributing to greater equity in education.
Personal Development Days
Personal Development Days are vital in helping students grow beyond academic learning. These dedicated days focus on key life skills such as resilience, self-awareness, teamwork, and decision-making. By addressing topics like mental health, career planning, relationships, and social responsibility, students gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
These days also provide a space for reflection, personal goal-setting, and engagement with real-world issues, which enhances their emotional and social intelligence. Personal Development Days support holistic growth, empowering students to become well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges in both personal and professional life.
Educational Visits
School trips are essential for enriching students’ learning experiences beyond the classroom. They provide hands-on, real-world exposure to different environments, cultures, and subjects, deepening understanding and fostering curiosity. Educational trips enhance students’ social skills by promoting teamwork, communication, and independence.
These experiences also help bring theoretical knowledge to life, making subjects more engaging and relevant. Whether visiting historical sites, museums, or natural settings, school trips inspire creativity and broaden students’ perspectives. They also contribute to personal development by building confidence, resilience, and adaptability, making trips a valuable part of a well-rounded education.
British Values
The Department for Education has published guidance to schools on promoting British values as part of SMSC to prepare young people for life in modern Britain. At Landau Forte Academy Amington we take this responsibility very seriously, and we actively promote the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs.
These values are core concepts for us at Landau Forte Academy Amington and act as a framework to protect our community from bullying, intimidation and discrimination. These are explicitly taught in PSHE Curriculum, Humanities subjects, assemblies in particular, providing students with the knowledge they need to deepen their understanding.
We also make great efforts to ensure our children are exposed to a wide range of experiences beyond their own community. We do this through a comprehensive offer for wider opportunities, including our electives programme, external speakers and visits both local and further afield. This enables children to embrace differences and celebrate commonality between peoples alongside developing a pride in Britishness and a sense of belonging to our nation.
British Values are included in every PSHE lesson and part of our Form Time Programme with ‘Picture News’.
9 Protected Characteristics
The Equality Act became law in 2010. It covers everyone in Britain and protects people from discrimination, harassment and victimisation. Everyone in Britain is protected. This is because the Equality Act protects people against discrimination because of the protected characteristics that we all have. Under the Equality Act, there are nine Protected Characteristics:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage or civil partnership
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Race
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
Under the Equality Act you are protected from discrimination:
- When you are in the workplace
- When you use public services like healthcare (for example, visiting your doctor or local hospital) or education (for example, at your school or college)
- When you use businesses and other organisations that provide services and goods (like shops, restaurants, and cinemas)
- When you use transport
- When you join a club or association (for example, your local sports club)
- When you have contact with public bodies like your local council or government departments
We use the British values and the protected characteristics in the Equality Act as a framework to prevent discrimination of any kind in our community and explicitly teach our students to report any discrimination to a trusted adult immediately.
The 9 Protected Characteristics are actively promoted at Amington through:
- Our school vision and mission
- Our ethos of being Ambitious, Brave and Kind
- Our consistent behaviour routines and norms
- Our student leadership programme
- Our wider community outreach and engagement
- Our Community Conversations during form time.
- Our PSHE and form curriculum and explicit teaching of British values and the equality act
- Our wider curriculum areas
- Our wider opportunities for external speakers, workshops and external visits
- Our student voice, staff voice and family voice
- Our ASPIRE programme
Careers
Our academy is committed to ensuring all of our students have access to highly quality, impartial careers advice and to a range of employers who can support them in considering their future.
To help us do this we have a strategic plan for the delivery of Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) and we align our CEIAG Plan to the Gatsby Benchmarks which have been explicitly referenced throughout the DfE’s Careers Strategy (December 2017) the Statutory Guidance for careers (January 2018) and aligns to the delivery of independent careers guidance to students in years 8-13.
https://lfata.org.uk/curriculum/careers/
Duke of Edinburgh Award
Discover your potential with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Landau Forte Academy Amington
Embark on an adventure that transcends the ordinary at Landau Forte Academy Amington with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. This prestigious program is not just about adding an impressive line to your CV—it’s about discovering who you are and what you can achieve. The D of E at our academy offers a unique blend of adventure, skill development, and personal growth, recognized and valued by employers across the board.
Why join the DofE at our Academy?
Starting from Year 9, students can engage with the Bronze award and continue their journey by taking on the Silver level in Year 10, following the completion of their initial award. The adventure includes community service, personal fitness, skill development, and the planning and execution of an expedition—a true test of resilience and teamwork.
Tailored support for every participant
At Landau Forte Academy Amington, we go beyond the basics. Participants in the Bronze award will experience the wilderness first hand with a two-day camping expedition in the stunning Rosliston area of the National Forest. We take care of the heavy lifting by heavily subsidizing the necessary gear, including tents, rucksacks, and cooking equipment. Our commitment ensures that every student focuses on the experience without the burden of costs.
Inclusivity at its core
We believe every student deserves the chance to shine. The DofE program at our academy is designed to be as inclusive as possible, welcoming students of all abilities and backgrounds. It’s not about competition; it’s about overcoming personal challenges and breaking through your own limits.
Empowering our students
Joining the DofE program means joining a community that fosters making lifelong friends, enhancing self-esteem, and building confidence. Students develop crucial life skills such as resilience, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. These skills don’t just prepare them for university or future careers—they prepare them for life. Employers recognize and value these qualities, often seeking out DofE Award holders for their proven capabilities and drive.
Get involved
To learn more about how you can start your Duke of Edinburgh’s journey at Landau Forte Academy Amington, please reach out to Mr Hellyer at [email protected] . Don’t miss out on the chance to challenge yourself, discover new passions, and achieve something truly remarkable!
Student Leadership Team
Every student has the opportunity to drive the direction of our academy through each tutor group which feeds into our Student Leadership Team and House Ambassador Programme. Our Student Leadership Team regularly present their ideas and planning to the Senior Leadership Team to ensure we are all working together for our community. We have wonderful students at Amington and we are proud to develop our students to prepare them for contributing to society as productive adults in the modern world beyond education.
Extra-Curricular Clubs
Through the extra-curricular programme at Landau Forte Academy Amington, students take part in activities that stretch and challenge them whilst building life skills that will stay with them forever.
Achieving a curriculum that has both breadth of content and depth in learning, is crucial in helping our students achieve their goals, develop their readiness for life after Landau Forte Academy Amington and to having high aspirations for their futures.
Education outside of the classroom is a fundamental part of a students’ Landau Forte Academy Amington experience. Our extra-curricular programme, ensures that students experience a range of character and resilience building out of classroom activities. The vast range of clubs enhance our students’ interests, skills and talents outside of the usual curriculum; there’s something for everyone to get involved in. The programme also helps students develop the three core values of Landau Forte Academy Amington: Ambitious, Brave and Kind, outside of a usual classroom context.
There is a huge variety of activities to get involved with. These include football, basketball and netball in sports; Chess, Journalism and Art Club for creative minds, as well as key opportunities such as Student Leadership Team. We help students to initiate activities, such as searching for local competitions to enter or running a club for younger students, in order to develop leadership skills and provide the opportunity for students to give back to their local community whether that be through debate competitions or the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
The programme runs after school from 3:15 – 4pm, with students able to attend more than one club in a week to ensure that they try new activities that stretch and challenge them. Students will be guided by their Form Tutors and encouraged to try different activities that will enable them to step out of their comfort zone and work with students of different ages and friendship groups. Through the extra-curricular programme, students are equipped with the skills and experience to pursue their own passions further, whether that be in learning a new language, coding or a specific sporting activity.
House System
We are proud of our community; our house system celebrates that community in a wide range of ways. House champions oversee each house and also lead on an area that we believe is important to the academy: charity, community, diversity and anti-bullying. Each house has its own identity and ethos, which encompasses the academy values of ambitious, brave and kind.
Being part of any house here at Amington enables you to step up and climb into new and ambitious roles. Roles, which enable you to become leaders of your house supporting your year group, or as a year 11 house captain where you, along with others, become the ultimate house leaders. You will be an ambassador and embed both the school values and your house values through your journey at Amington, encouraging students to take on challenges and develop the community spirit within your house, as one whole team. Students have the opportunity to represent their house in a wide range of activities and competitions throughout the year. These range from sports competitions, a variety of quiz based activities, art, and crafts. The students also have the opportunity to be part of a united team, working together in unison to win and participate in all of these activities. As well as being part of the team, some students will be chosen to be a KS3/KS4 captain of their
house, which is a big responsibility. The house captain will lead by example, becoming a role model to the other students and use their leadership skills to discuss team selections, with their house champion.
