At Witley C of E Infant School we have introduced a whole school PSHE scheme called Jigsaw. Jigsaw combines PSHE, emotional literacy, mindfulness, social skills, SMSC – spiritual, moral, social and cultural development as well as relationships and health education. Jigsaw also helps promote the fundamental British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
Jigsaw is designed as a whole school approach, with all year groups working on the same theme called a ‘Puzzle’ at the same time, including EYFS. Jigsaw aims to help children know and value who they really are and how they relate to other people in this ever-changing world.
Jigsaw Puzzles
Jigsaw is split into six units or ‘Puzzles’, each containing 6 lesson plans. The Puzzles are sequential from beginning to end of the school year:
- Being Me in My World
- Celebrating Difference
- Dreams and Goals
- Healthy Me
- Relationships
- Changing Me
Each lesson begins with the Jigsaw Charter which the children may have co-written with their teacher. It sets the ground rules for mutual respect and the listening to and acceptance of the contributions of the whole class.
To find out more about Jigsaw please click on the pdf link below to access a Parent/Carer information guide.
Statutory Relationship and Health Education
(DfE, England 2019)
Jigsaw provides a comprehensive PSHE Programme which covers all the requirements of the government guidance and outcomes, and more. The Relationships and Healthy Me Puzzles (units) cover most of the aspects in the guidance but these are enhanced, revisited and foundations built throughout the Jigsaw Programme. Jigsaw’s philosophy starts by building positive self-image, a sense of identity and a healthy relationship with self, and from that starting point helps children grow healthy relationships with others.
Health Education in Jigsaw embraces not only physical health but has a strong focus on mental health and emotional literacy throughout, and empowers children to be aware of their own thoughts and feelings and know how to manage and regulate these e.g. using Calm Me (mindfulness techniques).
