Over the course of this academic year, our School Health & Wellbeing Service lead, Russell Stanley, will be sharing his thoughts, tips and advice on key themes across PSHE education and wider Personal Development via a series of regular blogs.
This term, we are looking at some of the basics that we need to have in place to ensure a safe and effective learning environment is created in the PSHE classroom. After all, PSHE is a ‘bit different’ to most other subjects, so we need to make sure that we understand and create the right conditions for effective teaching and learning!
In his third blog, Russell considers why it is so important for teachers to use, model and reinforce correct terminology in the PSHE classroom.
Creating a Safe Learning Environment in PSHE - The importance of using correct vocabulary
Hopefully by now, there is little argument to the contrary that PSHE plays a crucial role in helping young people develop the knowledge, skills, understanding and attributes that they need to navigate both their current and future lives confidently and responsibly.
A key factor that enhances the effectiveness of PSHE is the use of correct vocabulary. From defining terms accurately to fostering inclusivity, the words we choose and use in the PSHE classroom can have a profound impact on our students and their understanding. Put frankly, the terminology we use in the classroom can either uplift and empower children and young people or it can create a space of potential discomfort and division.
This blog delves into a summary of some of the reasons why the use of correct vocabulary is so essential in fostering a safe PSHE learning environment in schools, and the wider benefits to this, regardless of the topic or theme being covered.
Reduces misunderstanding
When talking about all sorts of potentially complex topics such as mental health, substances, sexuality, and personal finances, using accurate and factual vocabulary ensures that pupils better grasp the concepts. Accurate terminology helps prevent misunderstanding, especially with any nuanced or sensitive issues which might be very much open to interpretation and opinion. For example, when discussing mental health, distinguishing between different conditions like stress, anxiety and depression is crucial as each term has a different meaning and therefore implication.
Similarly, using the correct terms for different substances helps to establish consistency and that ‘we all know what we’re talking about’ rather than getting confused by a multitude of slang variations that mean different things to different people! When PSHE teachers consistently use correct language and are clear on why, pupils are also more likely to absorb and retain the learning, leading to a deeper understanding of the topics covered. It’s a win win!
Encourages inclusion and reinforces respect
Language is a very powerful tool for promoting inclusion and celebrating diversity. In PSHE lessons, where students learning will cover all sorts of topics relating to diversity and respect, using inclusive vocabulary fosters an accepting environment where all identities and perspectives are valued. In the modern classroom, students come from many different backgrounds, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences, so using vocabulary that acknowledges and respects these differences is vital to ensure no one is unintentionally alienated.
For instance, referring to students by their preferred names and pronouns, and avoiding stereotypes or generalisations, creates a safe, welcoming space for all students and ensures that all feel seen and respected. Choosing words that respect diversity can reduce stigma help create a learning environment where all students feel valued, and when students hear and use respectful language, this is normalised and they are more likely to internalise these themselves, too.
When students feel that their identities and experiences are acknowledged respectfully, they are more likely to participate actively PSHE discussions. Inclusive language therefore helps students develop empathy and understanding for others, which has to be one of the central aims of PSHE as a subject.
Promotes critical thinking and self-reflection
The correct use of vocabulary in PSHE can also encourage critical thinking and self-reflection among pupils. When terms are used consistently and accurately, pupils will be prompted to consider the deeper meaning of each concept for themselves.
For example, understanding what is meant by self-esteem compared to self-worth can lead pupils to further reflect on how they perceive themselves and what factors influence their own opinion and self-image.
Proper vocabulary encourages students to think critically about their values, beliefs, and behaviours, which ultimately contributes to the fostering of greater self-awareness and growth.
Reduces bullying and discrimination
One of the major benefits of using correct vocabulary in PSHE has to be the role it can play in reducing bullying and discriminatory behaviours in schools. Words can be powerful and hurtful weapons, and derogatory terms or careless or inaccurate use of language can cause significant harm to those who speak and hear it, and ultimately drive negative behaviour and jeopardise the emotional and physical safety of students.
Schools that prioritise the use of positive, accurate, inclusive language set a standard for behaviour that not only discourages verbal abuse and discrimination but gives students the standard to which they will be held accountable.
Teachers play a pivotal role in modelling correct vocabulary, both in and out of PSHE lessons. By consistently using respectful language and always addressing any inappropriate language used by students, teachers can set clear expectations for behaviour. This proactive approach helps to prevent bullying and creates a safer, more positive school environment for everyone.
Empowers pupils, builds practical skills
The vocabulary that we use in PSHE topics and themes is most often practical and applicable to real-life situations, making it essential for pupils to understand these terms correctly. Learning terms like consent, budget and resilience provides pupils with essential tools for navigating everyday ‘real-world’ situations.
By learning to use words such as these accurately and in the correct context, pupils will be better equipped to express themselves in all sorts of situations, like in personal relationships or as an employee. This greater vocabulary empowers pupils to better advocate for themselves, make informed decisions and communicate their own needs, which are all pretty vital skills for our personal and professional lives.
Supports consistency across school
PSHE overlaps with many other areas of the school curriculum, as well as with other important areas of focus. Using consistent and standard vocabulary helps create a joined up approach across different curriculum subjects, reinforcing pupil understanding of core concepts.
For example, terms like consent and boundaries might come up in both PSHE and PE, where they can be applied in the context of personal space and teamwork. Similarly, the correct words for body parts features in both PSHE and in Science and can be explored in different but complementary ways.
Equally, around whole-school approaches to issues like behaviour, using and clarifying the correct terminology in PSHE acts as a catalyst for expectations on pupil conduct across school. Schools who do this well and use PSHE to drive positive behaviours and language help pupils to see how their learning in PSHE lessons is relevant outside of just the PSHE classroom.
This cross-curricular and whole school consistency not only enhances comprehension but also helps pupils see the relevance of PSHE skills in all aspects of their lives.
Words help keep children safe
Ultimately, giving children and young people the basic knowledge and understanding about words is a proven factor in improving the safety of pupils, and their ability to seek out help and support if they ever need it.
In my opinion, this factor alone should be enough reason for any school to ensure that PSHE is used to build the important factual and accurate understanding of vocabulary across all sorts of topics in order to empower children with the appropriate words, skills and behaviours to help keep themselves and others safe.
Creating a safe learning environment in PSHE lessons is a multifaceted task that requires attention to various aspects of good practice, as we have discussed in the previous blogs in this series - linked here for you:
In PSHE, like in life, vocabulary is more than just words; it’s a door to understanding, to empathy, and to personal growth. Correct terminology provides clarity, reduces stigma, fosters inclusivity, and equips the children and young people in our classrooms with essential life skills. When teachers use precise, factual and inclusive language, they create a safe and supportive environment that encourages students to explore, question, and understand many different complex aspects of life.
Rather than just being ‘words’, the right vocabulary helps students to develop confidence, empathy, and resilience; the essential qualities that will serve them well as they grow into informed, thoughtful, and compassionate young adults.
If you’d like any help or support around the issues discussed in this blog or other parts of PSHE provision in your setting, please get in touch with us for an informal chat or come along to one of the many online training sessions we offer!
• School Health and Wellbeing Training Events
Meet our Expert -
Russell Stanley
Russell has over 18 years of experience of working in and with schools, both as a primary school teacher, and then in a variety of voluntary, advisory and managerial roles related to PSHE education within both Education and Public Health departments for a Local Authority.
As an independent consultant, Russell now works with schools, charities, local authorities and commercial education businesses across England. He is incredibly passionate about PSHE and the unique difference that this vital subject can make to the lives of children and young people.
