Police and Crime Commissioners Awards

Last night Mrs Foster and Mr Betlem got dressed up and took two of our KS4 students to attend the Police and Crime Commissioner Awards. We were joined by Professor Donna Peberdy and Fergus Mclean from Solent University and the Screening Sexual Violence project.

                         

We were all invited following our nomination in the Partnership Working category for our film Now Your Turn. It was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the collaboration behind the project and the important message the film shares. Unfortunately Wayne K, also an integral partner in the project, wasn’t able to join us on the evening, but we continue to keep him updated and involved. It was a proud moment to represent the partnership and the young people who helped bring this project to life.

If you havent seen our film yet check it out through the Screening Sexual Violence resource. Link below. 

https://screeningsexualviolence.com/now-your-turn/

We enjoyed a lovely meal in the Hiltons Beefy’s Lord Botham Restaurant before walking the red carpet, checking our coats and heading into the awards ceremony with our complimentary J2Os!

Although we didn’t come away with the winner’s glass trophy this time, we are incredibly proud of the nomination and look forward to receiving our certificate. The two KS4 students who attended were fantastic ambassadors for the school, and we had a wonderful evening filled with lots of laughs and the great company of Donna and Fergus. The evening was rounded off perfectly with a sneaky McDonald’s ice cream on the way home (thank you Mr Betlem!).

We are so proud of our students!

No Limits KS4 - Drugs Education

 No Limits Organisation Visit - Session 1. 

This week, students took part in an engaging workshop led by the No Limits organisation, focusing on drugs, alcohol, vaping, and making informed choices.

The session included discussions on energy drinks, their ingredients, legal age limits (16+), and health impacts. Students also learned that speaking honestly to a healthcare professional is confidential and will not get them into trouble unless there is a safeguarding concern.

Key topics included the risks of mixing drugs and alcohol, vaping and nicotine addiction, and the health effects of substances such as alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, and ketamine. Students explored drug classifications, the ABC law model, and took part in interactive group activities.

Group discussions highlighted the short- and long-term effects of alcohol and nicotine, including mental health, physical health, cancer risks, and social pressures, as well as the serious risks linked to ketamine use. The real-life financial cost of drug habits was also explored.

Future sessions will cover quitting strategies, healthy alternatives, performance-enhancing drugs, illegal THC vapes, safer choices, and support.

A big thank you to Gerson, Sal and Emma for the engaging sessions today. 

All sessions adhere to the new 2025 PSHE curriculum. 

Any questions please speak to Mrs Foster or contact No Limits.

nolimitshelp.org.uk 

 

Into Film and Road Safety

During this half term, we are excited to be engaging with ‘Into Film,’ a fantastic nationwide initiative that has kindly provided our school with tickets to see a variety of films at our local cinemas. We have proudly partnered with Into Film for the past few years, and this programme offers pupils the chance to enjoy a shared cultural experience, relax, and spend time together in a fun, social setting.

As part of the experience, some pupils were challenged to use their geographical local knowledge of Southampton to navigate their way to the cinema independently. Miss Longhurst was particularly impressed with Year 7, who demonstrated excellent problem-solving skills, teamwork, and confidence in finding their way.

The trip also provided an important opportunity to put road safety knowledge into practice, linking directly to our PSHE curriculum. It was great to see students engaging in learning outside the classroom and applying it to a real-life context, reinforcing the importance of staying safe and making responsible choices while out and about.

Overall, the visit was not only an enjoyable and memorable outing but also a valuable learning experience, combining independence, safety awareness, and the joy of sharing a film with friends.

 

PSHE - Prejudice and Discrimination throughout History

KS3 have undertaken some excellent research into recognising the challenges faced by a range of historical figures who worked to make a positive contribution to society. Through this work, students have begun to explore not only the events and individuals who shaped the past, but also the wider social issues that continue to influence our lives today.

Year 8, in particular, have really enjoyed learning about Anne Frank and the context of the Second World War. By studying her experiences, pupils have developed a deeper understanding of the impact of persecution, conflict and discrimination in history. They have reflected on how individuals, even in the most difficult circumstances, can show courage, resilience and hope.

In PSHE, students have linked this historical learning to key themes such as prejudice, discrimination, equality and respect for diversity. They now have a secure understanding of these important concepts and can explain why they matter in modern society. Through discussions and activities, pupils have also explored the importance of the Equality Act and the role of the law in protecting people’s rights and promoting fairness for all.

By making these connections between History and PSHE, KS3 students are developing not only their knowledge of the past, but also their empathy, critical thinking and understanding of how we can contribute positively to our communities today.

 

Pop up Shop 2025

Mrs Foster is busy getting everything ready for our annual Pop-Up Shop, and the excitement is already starting to build! This much-loved tradition brings so much festive joy to our school community, and preparations are well underway to make this year’s shop the best one yet.

If anyone has any contributions they would like to donate, or if you would like to offer your time to help Mrs Foster organise and prepare the shop, please come and speak to her at some point this week. Every bit of support, whether items, time or helping hands makes a huge difference and is greatly appreciated.

The countdown to Christmas has officially begun! In fact, there has already been a hint of seasonal magic in the office… I may have spotted a sneaky pile of Advent calendars all lined up and ready to go, thanks to a very generous donation.

It’s definitely beginning to look a lot like Christmas! 🎄✨

 

KS4 - Knife Crime workshop written reflections

KS4 pupils have been working incredibly hard in PSHE this week as they reflect on their first Knife Crime workshop with Paul from Hampshire Police. The session gave students an honest and powerful insight into the realities and consequences of knife crime, helping them to think deeply about personal safety, decision-making and the impact that violence can have on individuals, families and communities.

Through thoughtful discussion and written reflections, pupils have been exploring how positive choices, awareness and responsible behaviour play an important role in keeping themselves and others safe. Their maturity and engagement have been fantastic to see, and the workshop has already sparked meaningful conversations across the year group.

We are really looking forward to welcoming Paul back this Tuesday for our second workshop, where students will build on what they have learned and continue to develop their understanding of how to navigate difficult situations confidently and safely.

Another excellent example of KS4 demonstrating responsibility, resilience and readiness for the world beyond school.

 

Odd Sock Day!

It was wonderful to see our whole school community coming together to support the work of the Anti-Bullying Alliance this November. The enthusiasm across the school was fantastic, and it was clear that everyone was eager to show their commitment to kindness, respect and standing up for others.

Our Odd Socks Day was a real highlight, with pupils and staff proudly wearing their most colourful, creative and quirky socks to celebrate individuality and remind each other that being different is something to be embraced. Here are just a few of the brilliant Odd Socks that were on display!

In PSHE, our Year 7 pupils have also been learning all about our online reporting system, understanding how to use it safely and responsibly to seek help, raise concerns and support each other. These lessons play an important part in ensuring that all students feel confident in knowing where to turn if they ever need advice or reassurance.

A huge well done to everyone involved, your support helps create a school environment where every student feels valued, included and safe.

Celebrating Difference – KS3 Half Term Theme

This half term, our KS3 theme is “Celebrating Difference.” We’ll be exploring what makes each of us unique and learning how our differences make our school community stronger and more vibrant.

We’re kicking off our learning with Odd Socks Day, a fun and meaningful way to celebrate individuality and promote kindness, respect, and acceptance. Together, we’ll be embracing diversity, celebrating each other’s uniqueness, and building a culture where everyone feels valued and included.

Year 7 topics will include:

Bullying, prejudice and discrimination. Equality Act, bystanders, stereotyping, challenging influences, negative behaviour and attitudes, assertiveness and the importance of being included. 

Year 8 topics will include:

Positive change made by others, how positive behaviour affects feelings of wellbeing, social injustice, inequality, community cohesion and support, multiculturalism, diversity, race and religion, stereotypes. prejudice, LGBT+ bullying, hate crime, fear and emotions and stand up to bullying. 

Year 9 topics will include:

Protected characteristics, Equality Act, phobic and racist language, legal consequences of bullying and hate crime, sexism, ageism, positive and negative language, banter, child on child abuse, bullying in the workplace, direct and indirect discrimination, harassment, victimisation. Prejudice, discrimination and stereotyping. 

As part of our wider PSHE learning, KS3 will also be practicing road safety and developing awareness of public spaces during their Into Film trips, helping students build confidence and independence while staying safe in our community.

We’re looking forward to a visit from our Dental Nurse, Rita, on Monday 1st December. She will be talking to all KS3 classes about dental health, helping students learn more about how to look after their teeth and the importance of good oral hygiene.

To round off the term, we’ll enjoy some Christmas fun and our much loved annual Pop-Up Shop — more information will be shared soon!

Don’t forget to keep checking our blog to follow KS3’s learning journey and see all the exciting things we’re getting up to this half term.

Thank you to all parents and carers for sharing so many positive and supportive conversations around PSHE during Target Review Day last half term. Your contributions are incredibly valuable in helping us shape and deliver a curriculum that truly supports every child.

With the introduction of a new PSHE curriculum this summer, I would love to spend more time discussing the progressive new topics for 2026, sharing resources, and developing our policy together over a cup of tea and cake! A huge thank you to the parents who have already volunteered to join me. I will be sending out confirmation of our meeting date in Spring 1, and I can’t wait to share our vision and hear your ideas.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support in this important and valued area of our curriculum at The Polygon.

If you have any questions regarding PSHE please don’t hesitate to contact Mrs Foster.

 

 

KS4 - Collaborative Project with Hampshire Police

We are excited to inform you that our KS4 pupils will be working with Paul Richards from Hampshire Police this half term within their PSHE lessons.

As a school, we are proud to work in partnership with a range of amazing charities and organisations across Southampton to enhance the delivery of our PSHE curriculum. These partnerships help our students become familiar with the support available to them, build confidence in accessing local services, and provide valuable employer encounters to develop their understanding of potential careers.

All sessions will adhere to the NEW PSHE Statutory Guidance (effective from July 2025) and will include the below learning outcomes:

·        I understand the concepts and laws relating to harms which are exploitative including criminal exploitation.

·        I understand the risks and signs of grooming or exploitation, and how to seek help where there is a concern.

·        I understand the laws relating to violent or threatening behaviour.

·        I understand how to increase personal safety in public spaces, including when socialising with friends, family, the wider community or strangers.

·        I understand ways of seeking help when needed and how to report harmful behaviour.

·        I understand that there are strategies which can be used to increase safety, and that this does not mean you will be blamed if you are a victim of harmful behaviour.

·        I understand the importance of trusting instincts when something doesn’t feel right, and understand that in some situations a person might appear trustworthy but have harmful intentions.

·        I can recognise and manage peer influence in relation to risk-taking behaviour and personal safety, including peer influence online and social media.

·        I understand how to develop key social and emotional skills that will increase safety from involvement in conflict and violence.

·        I understand the law as it relates to knives and violence.

·        I can take part in a First Aid skills session and understand how to contact support and services in an emergency situation.

During our first session on Tuesday 18th November, we will be joined by two additional members of the Educational First Aid Team. Students will receive an introduction to the project and team, explore seized knives, and discuss some of the key objectives around knife crime and personal safety. The session will also include essential first aid training, supported by the use of prosthetic materials to enable a hands-on, practical learning experience.

We are delighted to be able to offer our students this valuable opportunity to learn from local professionals, supporting their personal development and preparing them for life beyond school. Please check back in with the blog each week for updates and photos from the sessions, we can’t wait to share what we’ve been up to!

Anti-Bullying Week 2025!

As a school, we are proud to be taking part in Anti-Bullying Week, which begins on Monday 10th November. This year’s national theme, chosen by the Anti-Bullying Alliance, is “Power for Good.” 

To launch the week, Miss Ifould will be introducing the theme during her assembly on Friday 7th November. The focus encourages everyone, students and staff alike to use their power for good: to speak out, support others, and help build a school community where kindness and respect always win. 

We will begin Anti-Bullying Week with our annual Odd Socks Day! 
This is a fun way to celebrate that we are all unique and to highlight the importance of accepting and valuing our differences.

We can’t wait to see lots of bright and colourful socks around school on the day! 

We take all forms of bullying very seriously and are committed to supporting Southampton City Council in promoting Anti-Bullying Week across the city. 

The Anti-Bullying Alliance defines bullying as: 

“The repetitive, intentional hurting of one person or group by another person or group, where the relationship involves an imbalance of power. It can happen face to face or through cyberspace.” 

This is how we explain and define bullying to our students in school. 

Through PSHE, Citizenship, and ICT lessons, pupils explore how to recognise, respond to, and prevent bullying. Year 7 pupils, for example, have already discussed these topics in PSHE during Autumn 1 and learned how to use our online bullying report form, which can be found on the school website. Please take a moment to visit our website to familiarise yourself with this page and to learn more about the local agencies we work with to support our students. 

If you have any questions or concerns about bullying or the support available, please don’t hesitate to: 

• * Discuss it during your weekly tutor phone call 

• * Email the school directly 

• * Contact Mrs Foster (PSHE Lead) or a member of the Senior Leadership Team by phone 

We are always happy to talk through any issues or provide advice and support. 

Thank you for your continued support in helping us make our school a safe, welcoming place for every student. We look forward to celebrating Odd Socks Day and seeing our students show their Power for Good!