Other Information

Religious Education
As a Voluntary Controlled School, Religious Education is in accordance with the Dorset Agreed Syllabus. This is based on Christianity and the other principal religions represented in this country

Collective Worship
Collective worship at Shaftesbury School aims to provide the opportunity for students to worship God; to consider spiritual and moral issues and to explore their own belief; to encourage participation and response, whether through active involvement in the presentation of worship or through listening to and joining in the worship offered; and to develop community spirit, to promote a common ethos and shared values and to reinforce a positive attitude. Parents have a right to withdraw their children from collective worship.

Careers Education
Careers education is part of the Work-Related learning programme undertaken by students. It teaches about career development, training, further and higher education and is supported by visiting speakers, external visits and work experience. Students use Progress File materials to help plan and record their development and to appreciate the importance of key skills.

Sex Education
The principal aspects of sex education and relationships are delivered through the PSHE curriculum. The biological aspects of human sexual behaviour also form part of the school’s science curriculum, whilst the relationship element forms part of the Modern World Studies curriculum.

Drugs Education
Drugs education forms an important aspect of the school’s PSHE and Science curriculum. We aim to ensure that our students understand the effects of drugs, mentally, physically and socially. We offer a variety of opportunities when students learn to accept responsibility for making choices leading to healthy lifestyles. We offer a confidential Drugs Drop-In service for students and work closely with legal and medical services to ensure that students receive a holistic education in this respect.

Parents and students should be aware that any student found in possession of, or suspected of using, selling or buying any banned or illegal substances will be investigated, which could lead to permanent exclusion and referral to the police.