What is SPHE at St Philip Howard?
SPHE – St Philip Howard Education, is the umbrella under which we deliver our whole-school commitment to developing well-rounded, confident, compassionate young people who live out our Catholic values in modern British society.
Grounded in our four core Gospel values:
Service: Putting others first through acts of kindness and charity.
Perseverance: Staying committed and consistent, even when things are tough.
Humility: Recognising the value of others and acting with selflessness.
Excellence: Striving to be your best in all you do, including attendance and punctuality.
SPHE is not just a subject — it is the culture of our school, shaping how we learn, behave, treat others and engage with the wider world.
British Values & Protected Characteristics are at the Heart of SPHE
Our SPHE programme actively promotes the Fundamental British Values of: Democracy, Rule of Law, Individual Liberty, Mutual Respect and Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs
We also ensure that all students understand and respect the 9 Protected Characteristics of the Equality Act: Age, Disability, Race, Religion or belief, Sex, Sexual orientation, Gender reassignment, Pregnancy & maternity and Marriage & civil partnership.
These are not token lessons — they are embedded through assemblies, curriculum content, student leadership roles, displays, behaviour expectations, pastoral support, and our whole-school ethos of dignity for all.
What Sits Under the SPHE Umbrella?
SPHE at St Philip Howard is delivered through a wide range of experiences that go beyond the classroom and help shape the whole child. This includes daily and weekly tutor time where students take part in reflection, discussion and relationship-building, as well as weekly Personal Development lessons covering key areas such as PSHE, RSE, careers, wellbeing, values and safety. Collective Worship and assemblies bring the school community together to reflect on faith, ethics, diversity and current issues. Students also take part in SPH Experience Days and workshops, which provide focused learning on important topics such as mental health, consent, drugs, and online safety. Beyond lessons, students can get involved in a rich extra-curricular offer including sports, arts, debate, wellbeing activities and more, alongside a wide selection of local, national and international educational visits. Student leadership is a key part of SPHE, with opportunities to serve as Mental Health Champions, Anti-Bullying Ambassadors, Diversity & Inclusion Leaders and other roles that promote positive change. Students also represent the school in events, competitions, chaplaincy, performances and public-facing activities, helping them develop confidence, character and a sense of responsibility.
What Will Students Learn in Weekly Personal Development Lessons?
Every Wednesday morning, students take part in a structured Personal Development programme that supports their growth in all areas of life, not just academically. These sessions cover health and wellbeing, including topics such as mental health, healthy habits, coping strategies and body image, as well as Relationships and RSE, where students learn about consent, equality, friendships and the impact of the online world. They also explore Citizenship and Values, gaining an understanding of law, justice, democracy, media influence and anti-racism, alongside Careers and Aspirations, which prepare them for the future with guidance on work experience, employability skills and life planning. Safety and rights are a key focus too, with lessons on online safety, harassment, exploitation and substance misuse. All of this is rooted in faith, morality and ethics, helping students understand dignity, human rights, conscience and the principles of Catholic Social Teaching.
