Curriculum intent for Personal Development
At Holy Cross, we strive to provide a curriculum that extends beyond academics, technical skills, and vocational training. Our goal is to support pupils in developing all aspects of their lives, celebrating their individuality, and nurturing their growth into responsible, respectful members of the community.
As a distinctly Catholic school, we are committed to fostering community cohesion and preparing our students for the relationships, responsibilities, and experiences of adult life. Our personal development curriculum is designed to shape well-rounded individuals who positively contribute to society. Everything we teach is rooted in our Catholic faith, ensuring that our values guide and inspire our students in their journey.
Curriculum Implementation for Personal Development
At Holy Cross, our personal development curriculum is coherently planned to provide a wide range of experiences that support pupils in developing their talents and skills. It includes trips, visits, British values, protected characteristics, and relationship and sex education.
We offer a diverse selection of extracurricular opportunities, ensuring that every aspect of our curriculum contributes to pupils’ personal growth. Our structured systems also promote a strong culture of positive behaviour, making it a key part of life at Holy Cross.
At Holy Cross, every week begins and ends with Mission Circles—a time for students to come together in small, mixed-age groups to reflect, connect, and grow. Each group is named after a virtue, and students remain in the same group throughout their time at our school, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity.
On Monday mornings, we introduce our mission for the week, setting a shared focus. Mission Circles also provide a supportive space for students to check in with one another and their teachers. Then, on Friday afternoons, the groups reconvene to reflect on their experiences, celebrate successes, and discuss any challenges.
These sessions play a vital role in student well-being, allowing staff to identify any children who may need additional support—ensuring that every child at Holy Cross feels heard, valued, and supported.
