Citizenship is a statutory subject in the National curriculum in Secondary schools in England. At St John Plessington Catholic College citizenship is incorporated into the Personal Development Curriculum. 

A high-quality citizenship education helps to provide students with knowledge, skills and understanding to prepare them to play a full and active part in society. In particular, citizenship education should foster students’ keen awareness and understanding of democracy, government and how laws are made and upheld. Teaching should equip students with the skills and knowledge to explore political and social issues critically, to weigh evidence, debate and make reasoned arguments. It should also prepare students to take their place in society as responsible citizens, manage their money well and make sound financial decisions. 

  Aims: 

The national curriculum for citizenship aims to ensure that all students: 

• acquire a sound knowledge and understanding of how the United Kingdom is governed, its political system and how citizens participate actively in its democratic systems of government 

• develop a sound knowledge and understanding of the role of law and the justice system in our society and how laws are shaped and enforced 

• develop an interest in, and commitment to, participation in volunteering as well as other forms of responsible activity, that they will take with them into adulthood 

• are equipped with the skills to think critically and debate political questions, to enable them to manage their money on a day-to-day basis, and plan for future financial needs